Kournas Lake and Georgiopouli
Discover From the peaceful waters of Lake Kournas to the vibrant seaside of Georgioupolis, explore Crete’s landscapes, wildlife, and cultural treasures..
Nature, Beaches and Tradition in Crete
This is the only freshwater lake on Crete and considering the annual rainfall on the island is relatively large with a perimeter of 3.5 km. It is located near the village of Kournas in the municipality of Hania although very close to the border with Rethymno. We have the ideal car for you to reach Lake Kournas comfortably and easily.
The lake used to be called Koresia after the ancient city of Korion believed to be in the area. It is said the lake used to be full of eels but these have made way for many ducks and water snakes. It is even home to a rare species of bicoloured terrapin, the Diamondback Terrapin. It is probably now better known as a tourist attraction with its traditional tavernas offering Cretan delicacies. Also the ability to rent a pedalo bike to take out on the lake is a fun feature.
How to get to Kournas Lake
Lake Kourna makes for an ideal destination for an afternoon walk or part of a day trip nearby. It is conveniently located between Hania and Rethymon which makes it a suitable stop off. With your car rental, we can suggest additional places worth visiting, and you also have the option to include GPS in your vehicle for extra convenience. The landscape is genteel and relaxing. In the summer months when the water level has receded a thick layer of white sand is revealed and it is possible to walk around the lake.
Take the national road towards Hania and turn off towards Georgiopouli. Lake Kourna is just 4 km away inland. You can access the lake also from Kournas Village but this turn off from the national road is less obvious.
Georgiopouli
This large village is an ideal destination for those wanting a traditional Cretan experience with the added advantages modern tourism has to offer. Formerly a small fishing village it is now very much centred on tourism with many cafes, restaurants and small hotel and apartment complexes. The town square is a main feature almost completely surrounded by cafeteries, ice cream parlours and souvenir shops.
Located on the north coast of Crete it is 43 km east of Hania and 22 km west of Rethymno. Easily reached Georgiopouli offers a picturesque seaside resort. It was named after Prince George of Greece who was a high commissioner for the island in the latter years of the Ottoman occupation.
Georgioupolis is where three rivers meet the sea. The largest of the rivers, Almiros, forms a small harbour ideal for fishing and water activities. Many visitors take the opportunity to admire the greenery of the landscape by renting a water pedal bike. Bird lovers will not be disappointed as the river and harbour are both home to ducks and geese and similar wild fowl.
Perhaps the most spectacular sight of all is the small white chapel which seems to "float" on the water. It is actually set on a man made jetty constructed of rocks. This small jetty protrudes out to the sea from the harbour. The church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, not surprisingly the patron saint of sailors. You can walk along the jetty to reach the small church but of course sturdy footwear is needed as the rocks will certainly be slippy.
Either side of the main town and harbour are small sandy beaches which are organised and offer the usual array of beach beds, umbrellas etc.
The entrance to the village on the old road from Vrisses is an impressive range of large ecualyptus trees. Neighbouring Lake Kourna can be reached by foot or by use of the tourist "train" which will offer a perfect opportunity to admire the surrounding landscape. In the surrounding area you will also find gorges, beaches and many more attractions to explore.
Generally, Georiopouli is an ideal destination for all as it offers water activities, spectactular geen landscapes, calm waters next to sandy beaches and, not forgetting, a variety of feathered friends!