Lake Kournas
Λίμνη Κουρνά
Crete's only natural freshwater lake, surrounded by mountains. Its water shifts from jade green to deep blue. You can rent pedal boats to spot turtles, and there are small tavernas on the shore.
Lake Kournas is about 3.5 km around and is fed by mountain springs. Water levels drop in summer, exposing sandy shores. On the shore you can rent pedal boats or kayaks for about 10 to 15 euros per hour, and turtles and ducks are often seen in the lake. A few tavernas by the lake serve coffee and Cretan dishes. The lake is about 45 km from Chania, reached by a 3 km turn off the main road. It suits a stop on the way to Rethymno, and it can be combined with Georgioupolis Beach.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Imbros Gorge
- Frangokastello
- Ancient Aptera
- Marathi Beach
- Seitan Limania
- Loutro
- Agia Triada Tzagarolon Monastery
- Gouverneto Monastery & Katholiko