Attractions and Places To See around Λίμνη Κουρνά Δήμου Γεωργιούπολης - Top 9
Best attractions and places to see around Λίμνη Κουρνά Δήμου Γεωργιούπολης center around Crete's only natural freshwater lake, Lake Kournas. This region is situated at the base of the White Mountains and is a Natura 2000 protected area, known for its diverse ecosystem including turtles and various bird species. The clear waters of the lake reflect the surrounding hills, offering scenic views. Nearby, traditional villages and coastal towns like Georgioupolis provide additional points of interest.
Best attractions and places to…
Last updated: August 17, 2026
Lake Kournas
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lake Kournas
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Lake Kournas
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Lake Kournas
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Secured Rocky Path with Safety Chain
Highlight • Climb
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Λίμνη Κουρνά Δήμου Γεωργιούπολης.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Λίμνη Κουρνά Δήμου Γεωργιούπολης
Tips from the Community
Lake Kournas is today the only large natural lake in Crete and is located in a magical landscape. Surrounded by high mountains and olive groves. It is located next to the village of Kournas, 2.5 km southeast of Georgioupolis beach, 43 km east of Chania and 20 km west of Rethymnon. Lake Kournas and its surroundings form a very important ecosystem for Greece. Kournas is one of the very few regions of Crete where vast amounts of fresh water have accumulated over the years. Therefore, it is protected under the Natura 2000 program. On one side of the lake there are cafes and restaurants with a view of the lake. Adjacent to the cafes, in summer, when the water level drops, small beaches with white sand form. Visitors can swim on these beaches and rent umbrellas. Visitors can also go pedal boating and kayaking here. It is an ideal choice for the afternoon, when the water takes on a wonderful color and is calm. The lake was formed by the accumulation of groundwater coming from the mountains. The water bubbles up from a spring called Amati or Mati (it means "eye"), which is above the lake's water level in summer, while it is hidden below the surface in winter. A second spring is below the surface all year round. The lake is small, round and covers an area of 570 acres, has a maximum depth of 22.5 meters, is 1080 meters long and 880 meters wide. In summer, there are 7.5 million cubic meters of water in the lake. The lake drains via the Delfinas River. Source: cretanbeaches.com/de/str%C3%A4nde-in-kreta/str%C3%A4nde-auf-chania-west-kreta/kournas-see-chania
3
0
Lake Kournas is today the only large natural lake in Crete and is located in an enchanting landscape. Surrounded by high mountains and olive groves. It is located next to the village of Kournas, 2.5 km southeast of Georgioupolis beach, 43 km east of Chania and 20 km west of Rethymnon. Lake Kournas and its surroundings form a very important ecosystem for Greece. Kournas is one of the very few regions of Crete where vast amounts of fresh water have been accumulated over the years. Therefore, it is protected under the Natura 2000 program. On one side of the lake are cafes and restaurants with a view of the lake. Adjacent to the cafes, small white sandy beaches form in the summer when the water level drops. Visitors can swim on these beaches and rent sun umbrellas. Visitors can also rent pedal boats and kayaks here. It is an ideal choice for the afternoon when the water takes on a wonderful color and is calm. The lake was formed by the accumulation of groundwater coming from the mountains. The water bubbles up from a spring called Amati or Mati (it means "eye"), which is above the lake's water level in the summer, while it is hidden below the surface in the winter. A second spring is below the surface all year round. The lake is small, round, and covers an area of 570 "morgen" (approx. 2.3 km²), has a maximum depth of 22.5 meters, is 1080 meters long and 880 meters wide. In summer, there are 7.5 million cubic meters of water in the lake. The lake is fed by the Delfinas river. Source: cretanbeaches.com/de/str%C3%A4nde-in-kreta/str%C3%A4nde-auf-chania-west-kreta/kournas-see-chania
2
0
Lake Kournas is today the only large natural lake in Crete and is located in a magical landscape. Surrounded by high mountains and olive groves. It is located next to the village of Kournas, 2.5 km southeast of Georgioupolis beach, 43 km east of Chania and 20 km west of Rethymnon. Lake Kournas and its surroundings form a very important ecosystem for Greece. Kournas is one of the very few regions of Crete where vast amounts of fresh water have accumulated over the years. Therefore, it is under the protection of the Natura 2000 Program. On one side of the lake there are cafes and restaurants with a view of the lake. Adjacent to the cafes, in summer, when the water level drops, small beaches with white sand form. Visitors can swim on these beaches and rent sun umbrellas. Visitors can also go pedal boating and kayaking. It is an ideal choice for the afternoon, when the water takes on a wonderful color and is calm. The lake was formed by the accumulation of groundwater coming from the mountains. The water bubbles up from a spring called Amati or Mati (it means "eye"), which is above the lake's water level in summer, while in winter it is hidden below the surface. A second spring is below the surface all year round. The lake is small, round and covers an area of 570 acres, has a maximum depth of 22.5 meters, is 1080 meters long and 880 meters wide. In summer, there are 7.5 million cubic meters of water in the lake. The lake is fed by the Delfinas river. Source: https://www.cretanbeaches.com/de/str%C3%A4nde-in-kreta/str%C3%A4nde-auf-chania-west-kreta/kournas-see-chania
2
0
At this point, there's a 50 cm wide rocky path with a steep drop secured by a chain and slightly overhanging rock. This is definitely not for anyone who isn't afraid of heights and surefooted! The entire path there is very steep, with large steps, loose scree, very narrow, and definitely not a typical family hike! It's actually rated as an alpine difficulty level T2, which was not at all clear from the description of the area.
3
0
Freshwater lake with great leisure activities and bad food
3
2
Great freshwater lake in Crete with pedal boats and several restaurants.
9
4
Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I discover around Lake Kournas?
Lake Kournas is Crete's only natural freshwater lake, fed by groundwater from the White Mountains. It's a protected Natura 2000 area, home to a rich ecosystem including turtles (terrapins), eels, various fish, ducks, and rare aquatic plants. The lake's clear, often turquoise waters reflect the surrounding hills, creating picturesque views. During summer, lower water levels reveal small sandy beaches.
What family-friendly activities are available at Lake Kournas?
Families can enjoy renting pedal boats or kayaks to explore the lake, with many pedal boats featuring slides for extra fun. Swimming in the warm, clear waters is popular, and sandy beaches emerge in summer where sunbeds and umbrellas are available. You might even spot turtles! The Lake Kournas highlight is noted as family-friendly.
Are there hiking trails around Lake Kournas, and what are their difficulties?
Yes, there are several trails. The Shaded Path on the South Side of Lake Kournas offers great lake views and is generally less frequented. For a more challenging experience, the Secured Rocky Path with Safety Chain is rated as an alpine difficulty level T2, requiring surefootedness due to its narrowness and steep drops. There's also a Hiking Trail to the Dam at Lake Kournas, which is an intermediate trail.
What historical or cultural sites are near Lake Kournas?
A few kilometers from the lake, the picturesque Kournas village is known for its pottery and offers a glimpse into traditional Cretan life. It also houses the very old Church of St. George (Agios Georgios) with 13th-century wall frescoes. Additionally, on the road to the lake from Kournas village, you can find a shallow cave with interesting stalactite and stalagmite formations.
What other villages or towns are worth visiting near Lake Kournas?
Just 3 km from Lake Kournas is Georgioupolis village, a popular tourist town known for its sandy beaches and a main square filled with tavernas and shops. A very picturesque site there is the small white Chapel of Saint Nicholas, located on a rocky causeway near the end of Georgioupolis Beach.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain biking trails, such as the 'Old tree – Tavernas on Lake Kournas loop' or the 'Lake Kournas – Tavernas on Lake Kournas loop'. For running, there's the 'Lake Kournas – Lake Kournas loop'. Cycling routes are also available, including the 'Georgioupolis Harbor – Lake Kournas loop'. You can explore more options on the MTB Trails around Λίμνη Κουρνά Δήμου Γεωργιούπολης, Running Trails around Λίμνη Κουρνά Δήμου Γεωργιούπολης, and Cycling around Λίμνη Κουρνά Δήμου Γεωργιούπολης guide pages.
What is the best time to visit Lake Kournas?
The lake's water levels fluctuate with the seasons; in summer, lower levels reveal small sandy beaches, making it ideal for swimming and relaxing. The water temperature is very pleasant even in June due to its flat banks. The clear waters and scenic views are beautiful year-round, but for water activities and sunbathing, the warmer months are preferable.
Are there places to eat and drink around Lake Kournas?
Yes, numerous tavernas and cafes line the shore of Lake Kournas, offering traditional Cretan dishes and drinks with scenic views over the lake. One such place is Souhlis Tavern, where you can relax and enjoy delicious food and wine.
Can I bring my dog to Lake Kournas?
While the immediate lakeside area with tavernas and rental shops might have restrictions, the surrounding trails and natural areas are generally more accommodating. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash and be mindful of the protected ecosystem, especially the wildlife like turtles and birds.
What do visitors enjoy most about Lake Kournas?
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful, clear water of Lake Kournas and its serene location. Many appreciate the opportunity to swim in the pleasant water, especially with children, and the chance to spot turtles. The less-frequented Shaded Path on the South Side of Lake Kournas is also enjoyed for its great views and the chance to see peacocks.
Is there parking available at Lake Kournas?
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the main visitor areas of Lake Kournas, particularly close to the tavernas and boat rental shops. These areas are designed to accommodate tourists visiting the lake.
Most popular routes around Λίμνη Κουρνά Δήμου Γεωργιούπολης
Most popular attractions around Λίμνη Κουρνά Δήμου Γεωργιούπολης
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
