This location is #57 on our Best Travel Destinations In Greece & Greek Islands Map!
Lake Kournas, located on the island of Crete, Greece, is the island’s only natural freshwater lake, nestled in a scenic valley between the White Mountains and the fertile plain of Georgioupolis. The lake is relatively small, with a maximum length of about 3,566 feet (0.68 miles) and a maximum width of approximately 2,887 feet (0.55 miles). Covering an area of roughly 143 acres (57.9 hectares), it has a maximum depth of about 74 feet and sits approximately 66 feet above sea level. Fed by springs and snowmelt from the nearby mountains, the lake’s water level fluctuates seasonally, with a visible spring called Mati or Amati (“eye”) emerging on the southeast bank in late summer. Its proximity to the sea, just 1.55 miles away, adds to its unique charm, making it easily accessible from the village of Georgioupolis, about 2.5 miles away.
Lake Kournas is renowned for its tranquil beauty and ecological significance, attracting visitors for its turquoise waters and relaxing atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for activities like swimming, pedalo or kayak rentals, and leisurely walks along the white sandy beaches that form in summer when water levels recede. The lake is part of the Natura 2000 protected network due to its rich ecosystem, hosting rare flora and fauna, including aquatic birds like moorhens, ducks, herons, and cormorants, as well as eels, water snakes, and the rare Diamondback Terrapin. However, the introduction of goldfish has disrupted this delicate ecosystem. The surrounding area offers tavernas serving traditional Cretan cuisine with stunning lake views, making it a favorite for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat.
Historically, Lake Kournas was known as Lake Koressia or Koresia in antiquity, possibly named after the nearby ancient city of Korion, where a temple dedicated to Athena is believed to have existed. Its current name likely derives from the Arabic word for “lake” or “bath,” reflecting influences from the Arab presence in Crete during the Middle Ages. Local legends add a mystical layer, with one tale claiming the lake formed when a young woman, fleeing her father’s advances, wished for the earth to sink, creating the lake where she became a fairy. The lake’s dark waters, caused by algae at its bottom, once led locals to believe it was bottomless, a myth dispelled by modern measurements. Its historical and ecological significance, combined with its natural beauty, continues to make Lake Kournas a cherished destination in Crete.