Lake Kournas
Crete's only natural freshwater lake, offering pedal boat rides, turtle spotting, and refreshing swims amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & see turtles
Lake Kournas
Best Time
Beat the crowds & see turtles
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Crete's only natural freshwater lake, offering pedal boat rides, turtle spotting, and refreshing swims amidst stunning mountain scenery.
"A fantastic place, pedalos and turtles are a must. "
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Get there by 9:30 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. :clock1:
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun can be intense; bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pedalo Boat Adventure
Lake Kournas
Glide across the freshwater, spotting turtles and enjoying the stunning mountain backdrop. A must-do for families and couples!
Turtle Spotting
Lake Kournas
Keep an eye out for the lake's resident turtles, especially from a pedal boat or while swimming.
Refreshing Lake Swim
Lake Kournas
Take a dip in the warm, refreshing waters of Crete's only freshwater lake. Perfect for a hot summer day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Turtles
Sun Protection is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Get there by 9:30 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. :clock1:
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun can be intense; bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. :sunwithface:
💰 Pedal Boat Value
Pedalos cost around €15/hour, but turtles can be seen without one. :moneybag:
🤿 Snorkel for Wildlife
Bring snorkeling gear to spot fish and turtles near the lake's edge. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Peace
Get there by 9:30 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. :clock1:
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The sun can be intense; bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. :sunwithface:
💰 Pedal Boat Value
Pedalos cost around €15/hour, but turtles can be seen without one. :moneybag:
🤿 Snorkel for Wildlife
Bring snorkeling gear to spot fish and turtles near the lake's edge. :ocean:
🚗 Parking Convenience
Parking is available about 75 meters from the lake for around €3.50. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Kournas is widely praised as a beautiful and refreshing freshwater lake, offering a delightful escape with its pedal boat rides and turtle spotting opportunities. While some find the pedal boat prices a bit high and the water occasionally cloudy, the stunning mountain scenery and the chance to swim in warm waters make it a worthwhile visit for most.
"As everyone has said, a fantastic place, pedalos and turtles are a must. 15 euros for an hour. Ignore everything the lonely planet guide says about parking. 3.50 for the day, 75 metres from the lake side.
The mountains form a bowl around the lake, so the vistas are stunning. It does contain the heat, so it gets very warm. Take loads of sun cream.
Ive already reviewed one of the best Tavernas at the Lake, so check my reviews for the best place to eat.
Loads of gift shops on the main drag towards the lake. Decent ice cream and drinks too.
Swimming in the lake is so refreshing, take a walk around the lake and set yourself up under the trees for some shade."
Neil Mansfield
"If you plan it well and can afford tourist prices, this is 100% worth it. We had a lovely hour in a paddle boat, we saw plenty of turtles- and since we arrived early in the morning, there were not many people there yet. Highly recommend to do it this way, get there by 9:30 to beat crowds!"
Caro W. (cmwcmwcmw)
"Very warm water (August) , it’s pretty! Not the prettiest, but worth a visit if you have a car! We spent about 2 hours there, mostly in the water! If you bring a snorkel you can find small turtles 🥰 we went here and then drove another place to tan and chill!"
Maro Management
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Kournas is conveniently located about 40 km from Chania and 30 km from Rethymno. Renting a car is a popular option for flexibility.
Yes, public buses serve Lake Kournas, making it accessible without a car. Check local bus schedules for routes and times from nearby towns.
Lake Kournas is approximately a 45-minute drive from Rethymno and around 40 minutes from Chania.
Absolutely! Lake Kournas is a perfect day trip destination, offering a refreshing change from beach activities.
Yes, consider visiting Argyroupoli Springs, about a 15-minute drive away, or the archaeological site at Aptera.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to Lake Kournas itself is free. You only pay for activities like pedal boat rentals.
Lake Kournas is generally accessible throughout the day. Shops and pedal boat rentals typically operate from morning until early evening. Specific hours can vary by season.
Pedalo boat rentals typically cost around €15 for an hour, though prices can vary.
It's usually not necessary to book pedal boats in advance, especially if you arrive early. However, during peak times, availability might be limited.
Swimming is generally permitted in Lake Kournas. The water is warm and refreshing, making it a popular activity.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can rent pedal boats, swim in the freshwater lake, spot turtles, relax by the rocky beaches, and enjoy the scenic views.
Yes, swimming in Lake Kournas is a popular and refreshing activity. The water is warm and the lake is Crete's only freshwater source.
Many visitors spend 2-4 hours enjoying the lake, including a pedal boat ride and a swim.
The most commonly spotted wildlife are turtles. You might also see fish, especially if you bring snorkeling gear.
Yes, Lake Kournas is very family-friendly. Kids love the pedal boats and the chance to see turtles.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several tavernas and cafes lining the main area of Lake Kournas, offering food and drinks.
You can expect traditional Greek and Cretan dishes at the tavernas. Many offer fresh fish and local specialties.
Yes, you'll find gift shops selling ice cream and drinks along the main path to the lake.
While there are dining options, picnicking is also possible, especially if you find a shaded spot around the lake's perimeter.
Prices at the tavernas are generally considered tourist prices, but many find them reasonable for the experience and location.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the lake surrounded by mountains, pedal boats on the water, and of course, the turtles!
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour hues.
Yes, pedal boats offer unique perspectives for capturing the lake and its surroundings. Be mindful of water splashes!
The entire perimeter offers scenic views. Consider elevated spots near the tavernas or along the walking paths for wider panoramas.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expansive mountain scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The chance to spot turtles adds an element of excitement and educational value to the visit. Consider arriving early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds and ensure easier access to pedal boats. Pack plenty of sunscreen and hats, as the sun can be strong. The nearby tavernas offer kid-friendly food options, making it easy to enjoy a full day out without needing to leave the area for meals.
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money on food, consider packing your own snacks and drinks, or choose one of the tavernas for a more affordable meal rather than opting for pricier options. Parking is also reasonably priced at around €3.50 for the day.
💑 Couples
The tranquil atmosphere, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, is perfect for relaxed conversations and enjoying the natural landscape. Enjoy a leisurely swim together in the refreshing waters, or find a quiet spot by the lake to simply relax and soak in the views. Many of the lakeside tavernas offer charming spots for a romantic lunch or dinner with a view.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Freshwater Gem of Crete
The lake's accessibility makes it a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a break from the coastal beaches. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls around its perimeter, take a refreshing dip, or rent pedal boats to explore its tranquil surface. The surrounding area is dotted with traditional tavernas and souvenir shops, offering a taste of local life and cuisine.
+1While the lake itself is a natural attraction, its charm is amplified by the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to connect with nature. The clear waters and the chance to observe wildlife make it a memorable experience, especially for families and nature enthusiasts.
Activities and Wildlife Encounters
Many visitors opt for pedal boats specifically to spot the lake's famous freshwater turtles. While sightings are common, they can be shy, so patience is key. Beyond pedal boats, swimming in the lake is a highly recommended activity, especially during the warmer months. The water is clean and refreshing, offering a welcome respite from the Cretan heat.
While the main draw is the lake itself, the surrounding area offers a pleasant atmosphere. Tavernas provide a place to refuel with local food, and souvenir shops offer mementos of your visit. The combination of natural beauty and gentle activities makes Lake Kournas a well-rounded destination for a relaxed day out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit