Kournas Lake Beach

Summary

Presenting Location

My initial visit to Lake Kournas, the largest natural lake on Crete, was an amazing experience!

Tucked between the majestic White Mountains and the lush plains of Georgioupolis, it’s a stone’s throw away from the village of Kournas (2.5km).

Just a short drive from the beaches of Georgioupolis, Chania, and Rethymnon, this lake is a vital part of Greece’s ecosystem, especially for the Apokoronas area with its year-round fresh water.

The name “Kournas” is thought to have Arabic roots, meaning “lake” or “bath”. It was once called “Korissia”, and it’s said that a sanctuary for Korissia Athena once stood here.

The lake’s existence is thanks to groundwater from the White Mountains, emerging from a spring named Amati or Mati (“eye”). In summer, you can see this spring above the lake, but it hides beneath the surface in winter.

The lake is like a big bowl, filled with water on one side due to porous ground, and held in by non-porous rocks on the other.

It’s a small, round lake, stretching over 57.9 hectares, with depths reaching 22.5 meters.

In summer, it holds about 7.5 million cubic meters of water, which flows to Kavros beach through the river Delfinas.

Enviroment

You might notice some overflow and drainage works around, which help manage the water for nearby farms.

Despite human changes like restaurants by the lake, it’s still a haven for unique plants and trees. The dark water color comes from the algae at the bottom.

Birds like moorhens, ducks, herons, and cormorants thrive here, and the lake is famous for its eels. Watch out for water snakes and terrapins too!

Sadly, introduced goldfish are upsetting the natural balance.

Lake Kournas is perfect for a peaceful walk or a picnic. In summer, you can walk around the lake in less than an hour. There are cafes and restaurants with lake views, but they’ve changed the natural scenery a bit.

When the water level drops in summer, small sandy spots appear, perfect for a rest. You can also pedal or kayak on the lake, especially nice in the afternoon when the water sparkles.

In winter and spring, the higher water level makes walking around harder, and the beaches vanish under the water.

Legends of Kournas Lake

The lake, with its dark waters, fills each visitor with awe. Consequently, locals once believed that the lake had no bottom, but it’s actually 22.5 meters deep at most.

Another myth tells of a village that once stood where the lake is now. In this village lived a beautiful young woman and her father. One day, while on their way to the fields, they paused for a rest. The daughter began to comb her hair, capturing her father’s gaze. Unfortunately, his admiration turned into an unwelcome desire, and he attempted to seduce her. In her desperation, the girl cried out, “Lake, come and I will become the ghost of the lake.” Instantly, the ground beneath them sank, and water flooded the area, forming the lake. It’s said by the locals that on moonlit nights, visitors can see a fairy combing her hair on a rock in the center of the lake. This fairy is believed to watch over the lake’s animals and ducks.

Some say a fairy, the daughter of a priest, survived and now protects the lake’s animals.

Others believe the lake’s electromagnetic fields cause strange feelings or events.

Beach Profile

The shores of Lake Kournas are unique, with natural sand creating small beaches during the summer months. The water, a mix of blue and green hues, is shallow and calm, ideal for families and those seeking tranquility.

Amenities

While the natural beauty is the main draw, the lake is also equipped with amenities like umbrellas, beds, and sports facilities. Nearby, you can find food and water options, as well as accommodation.

Accommodations

There are various accommodation options near Lake Kournas, ranging from cozy guesthouses to luxurious resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors.

History and Significance

Lake Kournas is steeped in history, with its name dating back to Arabic origins and ancient myths surrounding its creation. It’s a site of ecological importance, included in the Natura 2000 network.

Activities

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from leisurely walks and picnics to water sports like pedaling and kayaking on the lake’s serene waters.

Dining

The lakeside cafes and restaurants offer a variety of dining options, with local Cretan cuisine and stunning views of the lake.

Best For Travelers

Lake Kournas is best suited for travelers who appreciate nature, tranquility, and a touch of adventure. It’s a family-friendly destination with activities for all ages.

Getting There

Accessible by bus services and a paved road, Lake Kournas is easily reachable from nearby cities like Chania and Rethymnon.

• Chania to Kournas Lake
  • Distance: Approximately 47 kilometers (29 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 50 minutes
• Rethymno to Kournas Lake
  • Distance: Approximately 24 kilometers (15 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 30 minutes
• Heraklion to Kournas Lake
  • Distance: Approximately 103 kilometers (64 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 1 hour and 40 minutes
• Hersonissos to Kournas Lake
  • Distance: Approximately 86 kilometers (53 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Malia to Kournas Lake
  • Distance: Approximately 95 kilometers (59 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 1 hour and 35 minutes
• Agios Nikolaos to Kournas Lake
  • Distance: Approximately 129 kilometers (80 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 2 hours
• Ierapetra to Kournas Lake
  • Distance: Approximately 155 kilometers (96 miles)
  • Driving Time: About 2 hours and 30 minutes

Tips

Bring sunscreen and a hat for protection, and consider visiting in the afternoon for the best light. Respect the natural environment by not littering and keeping noise levels down.

Weather

Discoveries Around Lake Kournas