Loch Arkaig is a remote 12‑mile (19 km) freshwater loch north of Fort William. It is fringed by Caledonian pine forest and hills and contains several islands, one of which has a ruined chapel dedicated to St Columba. Local lore claims a cache of French gold (the Jacobite treasure) lies buried here. The loch’s isolated beauty drew filmmakers seeking wilder scenery than nearby Loch Eilt; the director blended shots from both lochs to depict Dumbledore’s island grave. Away from the screen, Loch Arkaig offers birdwatching, deer‑spotting and walks through ancient pinewoods.