The Breathtaking BC Filming Locations Behind ‘This Is A Gardening Show’

Go behind the scenes of “This Is a Gardening Show,” the quirky Netflix docuseries hosted by Zach Galifianakis, and discover the real locations that bring its earthy charm to life. Filmed primarily on Vancouver Island, the series trades traditional studio sets for working farms, orchards, forests and school gardens, creating a grounded, authentic backdrop for its mix of humor and horticulture.

Across six bite-sized episodes, Galifianakis travels through lush agricultural landscapes, visiting apple orchards, tomato farms and foraging sites while learning from local growers, experts and even elementary school students. These filming locations reflect the show’s core message about reconnecting with nature, understanding where food comes from and embracing a more sustainable, hands-in-the-soil lifestyle.

‘This Is A Gardening Show’ Highlights BC’s Beauty

Filmed almost entirely in British Columbia, per The Cinemaholic, “This Is a Gardening Show” showcases some of the province’s most lush and agriculturally rich landscapes, with a strong focus on Vancouver Island and its surrounding regions.

The Times Colonist reports that one of the key filming hubs is the Comox Valley area, including Courtenay, where scenes feature real working farms and local growers. Notably, the series highlights the Stellar Raven Ecological Farm and Amara Farm, both run by experts who appear in the show and share their hands-on knowledge of sustainable farming.

Beyond Vancouver Island, production also extends to the nearby Gulf Islands, adding coastal scenery and a quieter, rural atmosphere to the series. 

Denman Island Is Where Zach Galifinakis Calls Home

Key Scenes: Denman Island’s natural setting is central to the show’s identity as Galifinakis owns property here, per Victoria News. Expect scenes filmed on working farms, in garden plots and along rugged coastal landscapes, capturing the show’s focus on sustainability and hands-on growing. The island’s orchards, small-scale farms and artisan spaces add to the series’ grounded, community-driven feel.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall is the best time to visit, when the island is at its most vibrant. Summer brings warm temperatures, active farms and local markets, while festivals and artisan tours also take place. Winters are quieter, with more rain but a peaceful, off-grid atmosphere.

Transportation Options: Getting to Denman Island is straightforward but requires a short ferry ride. The island is only accessible via the Baynes Sound Connector operated by BC Ferries, which runs between Buckley Bay on Vancouver Island and Denman Island in about 10 minutes. Most visitors drive to the ferry terminal from nearby areas like Comox Valley or Nanaimo, though limited public transit can get you close to Buckley Bay. Once on the island, there is no public transportation, so having a car is the most convenient way to explore, but cycling is also popular for those wanting a scenic, slower-paced experience. Walking is possible for short distances, and hitchhiking is relatively common among locals, while a small shuttle connects ferry terminals for travelers continuing on to nearby islands, such as Hornby Island.

Denman Island may be small and quiet, but it has a few standout quirks that make it memorable. “I love Canada, it’s a great country… British Columbia is very, very beautiful. I generally only see the same 50 people [on the island],” Galifankis told Jimmy Kimmel in a late-night interview earlier this year.

The island is also home to one of the longest cable ferry routes in the world, the Baynes Sound Connector, which glides across the water guided by cables rather than steering freely. The island has a strong arts and farming community, with roadside stands and studios scattered throughout, giving it a distinctly off-grid, creative vibe.

Things to Do: Visitors can spend their days exploring peaceful beaches like those at Fillongley Provincial Park, known for its sandy shoreline and warm summer waters, or hiking coastal trails at Boyle Point Provincial Park, where you might spot seals and seabirds. The island also has a vibrant arts scene, with small galleries, studios and seasonal markets showcasing local crafts, pottery, and fresh produce. Cycling the quiet backroads is also a popular way to take in the scenery.

Where to Eat: Despite its small size, Denman Island has a handful of cozy, locally loved spots. Grab a hearty breakfast or fresh-baked treats at Earth Club Factory Bistro, a long-standing café known for home-style meals, coffee and baked goods. For something more unique, Ima’s Kitchen offers organic baking and vegan coconut-based ice cream. If you’re looking for a scenic experience, Corlan Vineyard & Farm serves seasonal meals paired with local wine at a vineyard setting.

Where to Stay: Accommodation on Denman Island is limited but highly rated, with most options offering quiet, nature-focused stays rather than large hotels. The top-rated choice is The Cottage B&B. Cozy interiors and thoughtful amenities make it ideal for a relaxing island retreat. Another well-reviewed option is Fillongley Forest B&B, a rustic stay in the forest.

The Cowichan Valley Also Shines In This Netflix Original

Key Scenes: In the Cobble Hill area of Cowichan Valley, the rolling greenery and agricultural setting provide a calm, picturesque backdrop that reinforces the show’s focus on simple living, local food, and the beauty of working with the land. According to the Cowichan Valley Citizen, the show features scenes of Mount Washington, Comox’s Brooklyn Elementary School and briefly, a local farmer, Arzeena Hamir.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Cowichan Valley depends on the experience you’re after, but late spring through early fall is ideal. From May to September, the region enjoys warm, sunny weather, making it perfect for exploring farms, gardens and vineyards at their peak. Summer is especially popular for its long days and vibrant landscapes, while early fall offers fewer crowds and beautiful harvest scenery.

Transportation Options: Transportation in the Cowichan Valley is fairly accessible, but having a car is the easiest way to explore. Most visitors arrive by driving from nearby cities like Victoria or Nanaimo, though the region is also reachable by ferry, seaplane or nearby airports within about 90 minutes. Once there, BC Transit provides bus service throughout much of the valley, including local routes and commuter lines connecting to Victoria and Nanaimo, though service can be limited in more rural areas. For those who don’t drive, cycling and walking are popular ways to get around, especially in scenic areas.

“This Is a Gardening Show” is a surprising shift for Galifianakis, best known for his chaotic comedy roles in films such as “The Hangover,” as it takes on a much calmer, more grounded tone focused on gardening and farming. In conversation with CBC News, the actor shared, “I’ve been coming to the Vancouver Island area for 30 years, so I was happy to do it in this area, which has a tradition of fantastic gardeners… There’s a tradition here that I hope the next generation carries.”

He continued, “I also have young kids, and where food comes from these days seems very not good for them. For kids to be ignited by this is really my main goal.”

Things to Do: The Cowichan Valley offers a mix of outdoor adventure, food experiences and small-town culture. Visitors can explore local vineyards and farm-to-table wineries scattered across the region, enjoy hiking, kayaking or tubing along the Cowichan River, or wander through scenic rural roads dotted with farms and markets. The area is also known for its arts and culture, including the famous outdoor murals in Chemainus and Indigenous heritage experiences at the Quw’utsun Cultural Centre in Duncan. In the fall, a popular seasonal activity is visiting McNab’s Corn Maze near Ladysmith, where visitors can wander through towering cornfields as part of a classic harvest-season farm experience that also includes pumpkin patches and other family-friendly activities.

Where to Eat: In the Cobble Hill and nearby Shawnigan Lake area, a well-rated local option is The Cobblestone, known for its classic pub food and relaxed, small-town atmosphere. In nearby Cowichan Bay, The Masthead Restaurant is a standout waterfront dining spot offering fresh seafood and scenic views of the marina, making it one of the most popular choices in the region. A little further into Duncan, Craig Street Brew Pub and Just Jake’s are both favourites for casual dining, comfort food and local craft beer. For a more elevated experience, The Old Firehouse Wine & Cocktail Bar in downtown Duncan is also highly rated and known for its upscale but cozy dining atmosphere.

Where to Stay: One of the most consistently well-rated options is the Best Western Cowichan Valley Inn, which offers modern rooms, good amenities and reliable service for visitors. For a more upscale, scenic experience, Villa Eyrie Resort on the Malahat is a standout, known for its mountain views, spa and luxury atmosphere. If you prefer something more intimate, Eaglenest Manor Cowichan in Duncan is a highly rated guesthouse with a quiet, boutique feel. For a waterfront-style stay a bit outside the core valley, Page’s Resort & Marina on Gabriola Island is another top-rated option offering a relaxed coastal escape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zach Galifianakis Canadian?

No, Zach Galifianakis is not Canadian; he was born in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina, and is an American citizen. However, he married Canadian charity worker Quinn Lundberg in Vancouver in 2012, and the couple spends significant time living on a farm in a small town in British Columbia.

How many children does Zach Galifianakis have?

Galifankis and his wife share two boys. The first was born in September 2013, and the second followed in November 2016.

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