What is the only freshwater lake in Crete?
Lake Kournas
Written by: Irini Lefkoritissa
Lake Kournas is the only natural freshwater lake in Crete. It is located about 20 meters above sea level and has a more or less oval shape. Its dimensions are about 880 x 1090 meters. Depending on the time of year and the changing water levels, it has a surface area of about 580,000 square meters. At its deepest point it is about 23 meters deep.
Lake Kournas is part of Natura 2000
Lake Kournas is part of a small special eco-system. It concerns the lake itself, a nearby brackish lake, marshlands on the edge of the northern coast and the delta of a small river called the Almyros. Such an eco-system is unique in Crete and offers a habitat for various animal species. Birds in particular, whether or not on their migration, are attracted to the region. These can be ‘spotted’ especially well in the spring and autumn months. The most obvious are geese and ducks, but herons and cormorants can also be seen regularly. In the water you can spot eels and freshwater turtles. The lake has two sources on the south-east side and the lake is also fed by various streams from the mountain range, which lies to the south-west. Because it is such an important eco-system, it is part of a European network of protected nature reserves; Natura 2000.
The name of the lake comes from the Arab periods (824-961). It is derived from the Arabic word Qurna, which means ‘lake’. In even older times the lake was called ‘Korisia’. A few kilometres further inland there is a small village that also bears the name Kournas.
Some myths and traditions surrounding the lake of Kournas
According to folklore and tradition, the lake – the living creatures everywhere and in it – is protected by a young nymph, the ‘Lady of the Lake’. She was the daughter of a similar priest who had his parish in a village in the valley, which is now filled by the waters of the lake.
Apparently, both the priest and the inhabitants of the village had a sinful way of life and just like in ‘Sodom and Gomorrah’ God decided to punish them all. He caused floods and torrents to flow into the valley and caused the lake. Only the pious daughter of the priest was saved. composed she can be seen, during moonlit nights, wading on the shores.
Another version tells of a man who had such a beautiful daughter, that his own lusts could not stand and was about to commit a sinful act. The girl realized this and begged God to protect her from this disgrace. God took pity and caused heavy rains to flood the valley and lure the girl up, keeping them safe.
Relaxation and fun around the lake
On the lake itself you can enjoy a trip on a pedal boat. They are available for rent and come in different shapes and sizes. They offer you the opportunity to explore this beautiful place in a fun way.
In the late summer or autumn months the water level drops so much that white sandy beaches are exposed. You can then sunbathe or take a walk around the lake, which takes about an hour. Depending on the water level, you may be forced to turn around before you have completed the entire circuit.
There is currently a debate whether swimming should be allowed or not. It is definitely not allowed if you have just brought sunscreen, as it disrupts the delicate balance of the eco-system!
There are numerous tavernas on the waterfront. Most of them have playgrounds and offer nice views. The road down to the lake is now lined with small souvenir shops, where the ceramics are definitely worth admiring or buying.
Available Routaki routes:
City walk Heraklion – GPS audio tour.
You can experience this vibrant city with the interactive GPS app VoiceMap. Install the app for free and select ‘Heraklion’.
In the webshop on this site, you can purchase a code that provides access to all the information you need to enjoy a fantastic day in Iraklio.
Would you like to get an impression first? Then start by reading this page about Heraklion.
this topic is mentioned in….
Excerpt from route 32 – ‘Myriokefala’ – The Spirit of Crete: A Drive from Rethymno to Georgioupoli via Myriokefala in which the following is said…..
“While you drive, I’ll tell you about the Lake of Kournas, you’ll soon pass on your left. It’s the only natural freshwater lake in Crete. We are currently at an altitude of about 20 meters above sea level. The dimensions are approximately 880 x 1090 meters. Depending on the time of year and fluctuating water levels, it has an area of about 580,000 square meters. At its deepest point, it is about 23 meters deep.
The Lake of Kournas is part of a small, unique ecosystem. It includes the lake itself, a nearby brackish pond, marshlands at the edge of the north coast, and the delta of a small river called Almyros.
What might interest you:
Read about Agios Nikolaos and why it is so important for Crete and tourism
Read the Top 10 of Heraklion before taking the interactive GPS city walk
Wait for the sun to set and see the Rethymnon Lighthouse with the audio tour