Where Lost in Paradise Was Filmed: Hallmark’s Fiji Escape

Hallmark’s Winter Escape lineup is kicking off with a splash. Lost in Paradise is already shaping up to be one of the network’s most talked-about romantic adventures.

Starring longtime Hallmark favorite Lacey Chabert alongside Ian Harding, this tropical rom-com takes viewers far from snowy small towns. Instead, you’re dropped into a sun-soaked survival story filmed in one of the most breathtaking locations on Earth.

From rope climbs up mountainsides to unexpected snake encounters, the making of this movie is almost as dramatic as the love story at its center.

A Winter Escape That Truly Escapes Winter

Lost in Paradise isn’t just another change of scenery for Hallmark. It’s a deliberate push into big, cinematic locations that feel more like a blockbuster vacation fantasy than a cozy TV romance.

As the first of five Winter Escape movies premiering in early January 2026, it sets the tone for a lineup designed to help viewers trade parkas for palm trees.

The film stars Lacey Chabert as a high-end fashion company founder whose carefully curated life is turned upside down. Ian Harding plays a chef whose skills prove surprisingly useful when the pair are stranded together.

Their characters find themselves marooned on a deserted island. Survival instincts slowly give way to romance.

A High-End Fashion Founder Meets a Down-to-Earth Chef

The central pairing plays into Hallmark’s favorite opposites-attract formula, but with a tropical twist. Chabert’s character brings polish, ambition, and control, while Harding’s chef embodies creativity, adaptability, and emotional warmth.

Stripping them of modern comforts forces both characters to confront who they really are without titles or technology. That’s a setup that gives the film space to explore vulnerability and partnership in a way that feels pretty fresh for Hallmark.

Especially against the backdrop of an island where every decision matters.

Why Fiji Became the Real Star of the Movie

Unlike many Hallmark productions that rely on stand-in locations, Lost in Paradise was filmed on location in Fiji. It’s an archipelago of 322 islands in the South Pacific.

The choice immediately elevates the film’s visual appeal and authenticity. Audiences get lush landscapes, turquoise waters, and remote terrain that just can’t be faked.

Lacey Chabert revealed she spent an entire month in Fiji filming the movie. She called the experience spectacular and deeply meaningful.

From the moment cast and crew arrived, they were welcomed with warmth and hospitality that left a lasting impression.

Remote Filming That Tested the Cast and Crew

This was not a cushy resort shoot from start to finish. On the very first day of filming, the production required climbing up a mountainside using a rope just to reach the set.

That moment, according to Chabert, set the tone for a true adventure rather than a typical romantic comedy shoot. The physical demands added realism to the story and pushed everyone involved outside their comfort zones.

It created a sense of shared accomplishment that translated on screen.

Lacey Chabert’s Most Adventurous Hallmark Role Yet

After decades as one of Hallmark’s most recognizable faces, Lacey Chabert still managed to surprise fans with how far she went for this role. Beyond the rugged terrain and intense heat, she also faced one of her biggest personal fears while filming.

During an interview ahead of the premiere, Chabert revealed she encountered multiple snakes on set. By the end of the day, she’d actually held one—something she never thought she’d do.

It was a symbolic moment that mirrored her character’s emotional journey in the film.

From Fear to Fearless on a Fijian Set

Standing on set while keeping track of five snakes nearby is not something most actors expect when signing on for a rom-com. Yet Chabert leaned into the experience, embracing the unpredictability of filming in a truly natural environment.

This willingness to face fear head-on adds another layer of authenticity to her performance. It’s one more reason she remains one of Hallmark’s most trusted leading ladies.

Ian Harding’s Hallmark Journey Reaches a New High

For Ian Harding, known to many from Pretty Little Liars, Lost in Paradise marks another step in his growing relationship with Hallmark audiences. He shared openly how meaningful the experience was, praising both the cast and the crew for creating a supportive, family-like environment during their weeks in Fiji.

Harding described working with Chabert as even better than he imagined. That chemistry anchors the film’s romance.

A Small but Mighty International Crew

The production brought together crew members from the United States, New Zealand, Australia, and Fiji. It was a truly international collaboration.

Synthetic Cinema, the production company behind many of Chabert’s recent Hallmark hits, highlighted the professionalism, speed, and creativity of the team. This blend of cultures and expertise contributed to footage that the company described as nothing short of amazing.

Life Off Camera at a Luxurious Island Retreat

When they weren’t climbing mountains or filming beach scenes, the cast and crew stayed at the Pearl Resort in Pacific Harbour. The resort served as a home away from home, offering comfort and community after long days on set.

The location also played host to one unforgettable celebration once filming wrapped.

An Epic Fijian Wrap Party

Synthetic Cinema shared glimpses of what it called the most epic Fijian wrap party ever. There was food, drinks, and dancing to live local music.

Though Chabert and Harding’s faces were initially hidden to maintain secrecy, the joy and camaraderie were unmistakable. The party symbolized the deep connections formed during the shoot.

Supporting Cast and Creative Leadership

Lost in Paradise also introduces several actors new to the Hallmark family, including Lauren Gibson, Paul Hughes, Sean Miguel Perez, and James Trevena. Their performances add depth and texture to the story, rounding out the island world the film creates.

The movie is directed by Dustin Reikert, a familiar name to Hallmark fans. His steady hand ensured that the adventure, romance, and visual splendor stayed in perfect balance.

A Director Who Understands the Hallmark Formula

Reikert’s experience with the network allowed him to push boundaries while still delivering the emotional payoff viewers expect. By leaning into real locations and genuine challenges, he helped craft a film that feels both comforting and exciting.

When and Where to Watch Lost in Paradise

Lost in Paradise premieres on the Hallmark Channel on January 4 at 8 p.m. Eastern time. You can stream it the next day on Hallmark+.

This film kicks off the Winter Escape movie event. It’s aiming to whisk viewers away to a place where love grows under palm trees, not mistletoe.

If you’re into romance and adventure, this one’s for you. There’s even a bit of a behind-the-scenes vibe that makes the story feel extra genuine—almost like a real getaway you didn’t know you needed.