- Region
- Apokoronas, east Chania
- Distance
- About 4 km from Georgioupolis
- Depth
- Up to 22.5 m
- Activities
- Pedal boats, swimming, lakeside walk
The lake
Springs from the mountains feed the lake in winter; by summer the level drops and a strip of pale sand appears along the shore. The water changes colour from turquoise to deep green through the day. Its ancient name was Koresia, and locals once believed it had no bottom.
Wildlife
Look for freshwater turtles near the pedal-boat jetty, as well as herons, cormorants and ducks. Please do not feed the animals bread.
What to do
Hire a pedal boat, swim from the sandy edge, or walk part of the shore. Tavernas around the lake serve lunch with a view. Midday in August is busy with tour coaches; early morning and late afternoon are calmer.
Nearby
The village of Kournas above the lake has a cave with stalactites. Argyroupoli, built on ancient Lappa, has springs and old mills. Georgioupolis beach is ten minutes away.
Questions before you go
Can you swim in Lake Kournas?
Yes, from the sandy shore. The water is fresh and warms up in summer.
How deep is Lake Kournas?
Up to about 22.5 m.
Are there turtles at Lake Kournas?
Yes, freshwater turtles are often seen near the jetty.
