In short
- Swimming is permitted everywhere except near sensitive wildlife.
- Sandy beaches and sunbeds appear from May to October.
- Water temperatures are warm, but cold near the natural springs.
In this article
Lake Kournas is the only natural freshwater lake in Crete. It provides a unique swimming experience surrounded by the White Mountains. The water is clear, and the conditions are generally calm and safe for all ages.
Can you swim in Lake Kournas Crete?
Yes, swimming is completely free and permitted.
Visitors are welcome to swim in the lake. You do not need to pay an entry fee. The water is clean and calm. Bathers must respect the local wildlife and avoid harassing the turtles and birds.
When is the best time to swim?
The best months for swimming are May through October.
During the summer, the water level drops. This reveals temporary strips of white sand along the eastern shore. Locals set up sunbeds and umbrellas for visitors. Arrive before 10:30 AM in peak summer to secure a spot.
Is the water in Lake Kournas warm or cold?
The main lake warms up comfortably in the summer, but sections remain cool.
The lake is fed by underground mountain groundwater and two springs. If you swim near the 'Amati' (the Eye) spring in the southeast, you will feel a distinct drop in water temperature. The rest of the lake offers pleasant conditions for swimming.
Is swimming in Lake Kournas safe for kids?
Yes, the shallow edges provide safe, wave-free swimming for children.
Families often prefer the lake because there are no sea currents or waves. However, the water gets deep quickly toward the center, reaching a maximum depth of 22.5 meters. Always supervise children. Consider bringing water shoes, as some shorelines get muddy.
What should you pack for a swim?
Pack a swimsuit, a microfiber towel, and reef-safe sunscreen.
Standard beach gear works well. Reef-safe sunscreen is highly recommended to protect the delicate Natura 2000 ecosystem. You might also want a snorkeling mask to look for small fish and turtles below the surface.
Can you swim from a pedalo?
Yes, you can rent a pedalo, pedal to the center, and jump in.
Many visitors rent pedal boats from the wooden docks along the shore. Rentals usually cost 10 to 20 EUR per hour. You can pedal out to the deepest part of the lake. If your boat has an anchor, tie it off before jumping in.
Questions travellers ask
Are there sharks in Lake Kournas?
No, Lake Kournas is a freshwater lake. It contains ducks, cormorants, eels, water snakes, and rare terrapins, but no sharks.
How deep is Lake Kournas?
The lake reaches a maximum depth of 22.5 meters (73 feet) near the center.
Can dogs swim in Lake Kournas?
Yes, dogs are allowed in the water if they are on a leash and do not disturb other visitors or wildlife.
