Amazing Villas in Crete
Visit Lake Kournas, and you’ll discover the only freshwater lake in Crete, an important and protected ecosystem in Greece.
Visit Lake Kournas
Lake Kournas is located in the Chania region of Crete, Greece, between the towns of Chania and Rethymnon, and just four kilometers from the village of Georgioupolis. The lake is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by lush green hills and is an important and protected ecosystem under the European Union's Natura 2000 program.
The lake is easily accessible by car or public transportation, making it a popular day trip destination for visitors to Crete.
About Lake Kournas
It was known as Korisia in ancient Greece. Its modern-day name is the Arabic word meaning lake.
The lake boasts shallow clear waters by the shore. However, the depth of the water dips down to 22.5 meters at its core. The body of water is fed by streams from the nearby mountains and hills. In the late summer, be sure to look out for two springs on the southeast bank.
A Protected Ecosystem
Lake Kournas is a significant and protected ecosystem in Crete, Greece. The lake and its surrounding area are protected under the European Union's Natura 2000 program, the world's largest coordinated network of protected areas.
Lake Kournas is considered a wetland environment and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The lake is a vital habitat for a variety of bird species, including different types of ducks, herons, and cormorants. The lake is also home to several fish species, such as eels and water snakes.
One of the rare and unique species found in Lake Kournas is the Diamondback Terrapin (Malaclemysterrapin), a bicoloured terrapin known for its patterned shell. The lake also boasts two springs on the southeast bank, which can be seen in the late summer.
The lake is fed by streams from the nearby hills and mountains, which makes it an ideal environment for many aquatic and terrestrial species. The lush green hills surrounding the lake are also home to various plant species.
Things to Do in Lake Kournas:
While you’re spending the day at this beautiful Cretan lake, you can plan to do the following things:
• Take an afternoon walk and appreciate the peace and quiet of the lake.
• Have an afternoon picnic and enjoy the view.
• Go for a refreshing swim.
• Take the pedal boats out for a spin.
• Have lunch at one of the Cretan tavernas by the lake.
• Shop for traditional crafts at the nearby vendors.
For more things to do near lake Kournas:
Visit the picturesque village of kournas, which is four kilometres from the lake. There’s a cave here known for its stalactites and stalagmites
Argyroupolis is another village that is nearby. Here you can explore the ancient city of Lappa. It is also home to Agia Dynamis Springs. The fish taverns here serve delicious river fish dishes.
Georgioupolis is a village set next to a long beach next to Almyros River.
Visit Lake Kournas: The Largest Fresh Water Lake of Crete
Crete is full of diverse landscapes. Visit Lake Kournas during your stay at Amazing Villas in Crete to spend a relaxing afternoon just outside of Rethymnon.