Lake Kournas is Crete’s only natural freshwater lake, in a green valley under the mountains, 4 km inland from Georgioupolis. Its water changes from pale green to turquoise through the day, terrapins swim near the reeds, and you can swim, rent a pedal boat or walk all the way round. It is not undiscovered, and tour buses arrive daily. Arrive early and it is quietly lovely.
| From Chania | About 43 km, 45 minutes |
|---|---|
| Entry | Free; pedal boats and sunbeds paid |
| Time needed | 2–4 hours |
| Activities | Swimming, pedal boats, a 3.5 km walk round the lake |
| Best time | Before 10:00, or in May–June and September |
| Protected | Natura 2000 site |
What It Is Like
The lake is small (about 1 km long) and up to 22 m deep in the middle. In summer the water level drops and a strip of sand appears on the shore, where most people swim. The fresh water feels soft and cool after a week in the sea. Rent a pedal boat (some have slides, which children love) and go to the quieter far side, near the reeds, where the terrapins surface, especially in the morning. Herons, coots and ducks are around too.
What Recent Visitors Keep Saying
- “Saw turtles from the pedal boat!”: the highlight for most families.
- “Very busy and commercial after 10:30”: tavernas, souvenir shops and queues for pedal boats in July–August.
- “Bring water shoes”: the entry is rocky in places.
- “Hot”: the hills trap the heat and there is little shade on the shore.
Please: do not feed the fish or turtles and do not throw anything into the water. It is a closed, protected ecosystem, already stressed by released goldfish and development around its shore.
Legends
The name may come from the Arabic kurna (lake). In antiquity there was probably a sanctuary of Athena here. Local legend says a village sank where the lake is now, or that a girl fleeing her father prayed for the earth to open, and was turned into a fairy of the water.
Getting There
By car, take the national road east, exit for Georgioupolis and follow signs for about 4 km. The lake is not visible from the main road, so watch for the turn. At the lake, tavernas and pedal-boat operators run car parks, often free if you buy something; there is also free roadside parking if you are patient. Without a car: KTEL bus to Georgioupolis, then a 10-minute taxi.
Where to Stay
Georgioupolis, 4 km away, is the most convenient base, with a long beach and a relaxed atmosphere.
FAQ
Can you swim in the lake?
Yes, from the sandy shore that forms in summer. It deepens quickly further out, so non-swimmers stay close to the edge.
Is it worth it?
As a half-day trip, yes, especially with children. Combine it with Georgioupolis or Argyroupoli for a full day.
Combine With
- Georgioupolis: 10 minutes, for lunch and the sea.
- Argyroupoli: 15 minutes, springs and trout tavernas.
- Aptera: on the way back towards Chania.
- Kournas village: on the hill above, with a lovely view down over the lake.
Local tip: Drive back to Chania through the Apokoronas villages and Vamos rather than the national road. It adds 15 minutes, and the late-afternoon light on the hills is worth it.
