Due to the geographical position, most of the island of Crete experienced a shortage of drinking water. To solve this problem, many dams were built, which formed artificial reservoirs. These and the natural lakes of Crete have become an attraction of the resort, where tourists come for a relaxing holiday, fishing or water sports.
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Kournas
This natural attraction of Crete is located in the resort of Chania, 47 km east of the city. The nearest village is Georgioupolis. You can get to Lake Kournas by car, regular bus. But many tourists prefer to buy tickets for small trains that run from the nearest resorts. An alternative is to plan a trip with a rental car.
The peculiarity of this lake of Crete lies in its location. On the one hand, there are mountains, the peaks of which are reflected in the water. On the other hand, there is a large valley that forms beaches, places for a relaxing holiday. At depth, the water acquires a dark blue hue. Entry into the water is gentle, you can relax with children.
Description of Lake Kourna in Crete:
- Beaches. There are equipped places for swimming. Here you can rent sun loungers, umbrellas, there are changing cabins.
- Sights – the temple of the goddess Athena Koresiyskaya, observation platforms. They are built for birdwatching.
- There are taverns, restaurants and bars. It offers dishes of national Greek cuisine, you can order a traditional European menu.
In summer, at the height of the season, the lake of Crete becomes a popular tourist destination. Group tours are often booked here. But you can come to rest on your own. It is recommended to take beach accessories with you. On Lake Kournas, according to tourists, you can take beautiful photos of birds.
Votomos, Zaros
This lake of Crete is located in the resort of Heraklion. It can be reached from the capital of the island by bus or taxi. The distance from Heraklion is 40 km. The peculiarity of this place is a large number of springs. They formed Lake Votomos (Zaros), which provided drinking water for Gortyn, the ancient city-state. Therefore, many historical monuments have been preserved in the vicinity. Tourists and independent travelers will be able to see not only the lake, but also historical sights.
What you need to know about Lake Zaros in Crete:
- This is an artificial freshwater large reservoir, which was formed in 1987. This place was previously an olive grove and a Byzantine church.
- Swimming is prohibited, as the reservoir is the main source of fresh water for nearby cities and towns.
- Several hiking trails have been created for tourists. Along the way, you can relax on comfortable benches or in pavilions.
- Hzjv is the village of Zaros, where you can get acquainted with the life of local residents.
In addition to the reservoir, you can see the monastery of Vrondisi, located nearby. Entrance to it is free. Catering on this lake of Crete is good. On the coast there are bars, taverns where you can order breakfast or lunch. It serves Cretan cuisine, but there is a European menu.
Vulismeni
This is one of the largest lakes in Crete. It is located in the town of Agios Nikolaos, near Rethymno. The city-state of Lato was founded on its banks. Tourists will be interested to see the remains of an ancient Hellenic settlement. To do this, you need to walk from the shore of Lake Voulismeni for 20-30 minutes or take a taxi.
The lake is located in the center of Agios Nikolaos. One coast is steep cliffs, on which observation platforms, taverns, and local attractions are located. the other side of the reservoir is gentle. Many restaurants, entertainment for children and adults have been built here. You can choose one of the walking routes for evening walks along the coast.
Useful information about Lake Voulismeni in Crete:
- The diameter is 140 m, while the depth is 68 m. Therefore, in ancient times it was believed that this lake was bottomless.
- There is a channel connecting the reservoir with the sea. However, this does not affect the quality of drinking water, it remains fresh.
- For good photos in the reviews, it is recommended to go to the western cliff.
There are no places for swimming. Along the entire promenade there are small cafes and restaurants. This is a favorite place for evening rest of locals and tourists. you can order a boat or a small boat for a walk. But due to the small size of the reservoir, it quickly ends.
Bramiana
An artificial pond was built to supply the Lassithi resort with water. However, over time, birds began to visit this place. Representatives of the winged fauna from all over the island gather here. Lake Crete is located relatively far from the resort areas. Therefore, most tourists do not know about it. Located near the city of Ierapetra. This is the only place that is not listed in local guidebooks.
You can get to Lake Bramiana by bus or taxi. Important: tourist infrastructure is not developed here, you need to take food and drinks with you. The advantages of visiting – you can take beautiful photos of birds from the dam of the same name, there are always few tourists. This is a convenient place for leisurely walks, a relaxing, family vacation.
Maherida
Located on the Akrotiori peninsula. Nearby is the large Greek resort of Chania. It is 14 km from Lake Crete Maherida. the reservoir was formed in a karst fault. Filled with natural springs. The water in it remains cool even in summer. You can’t swim here, but there are places to relax. The advantage is the close location to the resort area.
Useful information about Lake Maherida in Crete:
- An asphalt path leads to it from Tersanas beach. Walking time is 10-15 minutes.
- Here you can see rare species of birds. In summer, there are many turtles on the coast.
- Comfortable benches are installed in the recreation area, there are several gazebos.
- In summer, visiting during the day is not recommended, as there is no shade, and the air warms up to + 35 ° С.
This lake of Crete can be visited in between beach holidays and excursions. Here you can take beautiful photos of birds, turtles. You can’t swim here, but several viewing platforms and recreation areas have been built.