• Location4 km south of Georgioupolis, on the border of Chania and Rethymno
• HistoryAncient name "Korisia," current name from the Arab period
• Dimensions579 acres, 20 meters deep, pear-shaped
• FaunaEels, silversides, river blennies, goldfish, mosquito fish
• FloraEndemic plants of Crete, Natura 2000 protected area
• ActivitiesSwimming, pedal boating, nature walks
• Local legendsMysterious woman in the lake, submerged village myth

Lake Kournas is the only natural freshwater lake in Crete, located just 4 km south of the coastal village of Georgioupolis and 2.5 km from the village of Kournas. Situated on the border between Chania and Rethymno, it offers visitors breathtaking views of the natural landscape, with the White Mountains in the background.

In ancient times, the lake was known as "Korisia" due to the temple of Korisia Athena, dedicated to the horse god or the maiden goddess. The ancient name "Ippokorona" eventually evolved into "Apokoronas." The current name "Kournas" emerged during the Arab period, possibly deriving from the Arabic word for "lake" or "basin," or from the Greek word "krinos," meaning fountain.

The lake’s size fluctuates with the seasons, expanding in the winter and revealing sandy shores in the summer. With a pear-shaped form, it covers an area of 579 acres and reaches a maximum depth of 20 meters. The lake is fed by underground springs and surface runoff from the White Mountains, and its waters flow into the Cretan Sea via the Delfinas or Almyros river.

Lake Kournas hosts a diverse range of wildlife, including eels, silversides, and river blennies, along with recently introduced goldfish and mosquito fish. The area is a Natura 2000 protected zone and an important stopover for migratory birds. Visitors can enjoy pedal boating, swimming in the cool waters, or relaxing at nearby cafés and taverns.

Local legends add to the lake’s allure. One tale recounts the story of a beautiful girl who cursed the area to flood to escape her father. Another legend speaks of a village that was submerged by divine punishment, with only the priest’s daughter surviving, appearing as a mysterious figure combing her hair by the lake. The lake is also said to harbor electromagnetic fields, causing unease for some visitors.