Kournas-See

Lake Kournas is the only natural freshwater lake on Crete, a quietly spectacular sight tucked into the Apokoronas area between the foothills of the White Mountains and the green valley behind Georgioupolis. It lies about 4 km inland from Georgioupolis and only around 2.5 km from the sea, roughly 30 km from Rethymno and 40 km from Chania. Ringed by hills and reflecting the changing light through the day, the lake's water shifts between deep blue and shades of green, a colour scheme that makes it a favourite stop for visitors crossing western Crete. The lake is relatively small and almost circular, with a perimeter of around 3.5 km, a maximum depth of about 22 metres and a surface that sits some 20 metres above sea level. Fed by springs, its level and shoreline change with the seasons, exposing more sandy edges in high summer. The surrounding area is an important wetland habitat, and the lake is home to terrapins, eels, moorhens, ducks and dragonflies, making it as much a place for quiet nature-watching as for recreation. The most popular activity is hiring one of the brightly coloured pedal boats, or a canoe, to glide out across the water and take in the mountain backdrop. Swimming is allowed in the clear, cool water, and gently shelving edges make it suitable for a relaxed dip. Along the eastern shore a cluster of tavernas, cafes and small shops looks out over the lake, offering shaded spots for lunch and easy access to sun loungers and boat rental. There is no charge to visit the lake itself; you simply pay for boats, loungers and refreshments. Getting there is straightforward. Driving along the Chania-Rethymno national road, travellers exit at Georgioupolis and follow signs inland for about 4 km to the lake. Public buses also serve the area, and many visitors without a car join organised day trips that combine Kournas with Georgioupolis or Chania. The drive from either Rethymno or the surrounding resorts takes under an hour. Lake Kournas is especially well suited to families, nature lovers and anyone wanting a relaxed half-day away from the beaches. Children enjoy the pedal boats and spotting terrapins, while adults can swim, eat lakeside or simply admire one of Crete's most distinctive natural landscapes.