Kournas
Lake Kournas is the only freshwater lake in Crete, and one of the island’s many attractions. The lake is located in a very scenic area 4 km south of the holiday town of Georgioupoulis on the north coast of Crete.
The lake is surrounded by mountains to the east, west and south, mountains which beautifully highlight the green and blue shades of the water. The best way to experience this amazing scenery is by renting a pedalo, which is rented out in several places. The alternative is to walk the 3.5 km around the lake, a trip which takes just under an hour.
In antiquity, the lake was called Koressia, and ever since then, Lake Kournas has been associated with many different myths. One of them was that the lake was bottomless. Of course it isn’t, and with a maximum depth of 22 metres, it’s actually quite shallow. At its widest point, there are 1,087 meters between the banks.
The eastern side of Lake Kournas is the most lively area. There are a handful of restaurants here, where it is possible to buy grilled specialties. A good tip is the regional dish Apáki, which is smoked and marinated pork. The lucky ones get tables with an impressive view of the lake and the mountains. Right next to the restaurants is also a large ceramics shop that sells colorful local ceramics.
On the east side you will also find a few small beaches. Here it is possible to rent sunbeds and swim in the crystal clear water. Close to the restaurants there are two bridges where you can rent pedaloes.
A little less than 2 km southeast of the lake you will find the cozy village of Kournas. Here you can enjoy traditional Greek food and buy handmade ceramics.
Watch our video from Lake Kournas
Lake Kournas map
Lake Kournas is only 2 km from the coast. For those arriving by car, it is 43 km from Chania and 23 km from Rethymnon. There is a large parking lot on the east side. Holidaymakers in Georgioupolis should try the trip to Lake Kournas on rented bikes – a fantastic ride in the beautiful countryside.
