Kouris Dam: Cyprus's Liquid Heart

Discover Kouris Dam in Cyprus: the island's largest dam offering serene beauty, walking trails, birdwatching, and a peaceful escape into nature.

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Kouris Dam, the largest dam in Cyprus, is a testament to the island’s commitment to water management and a captivating destination for tourists seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Located in the Limassol District, near Kantou village, the dam is easily accessible and offers a serene escape.

A brief summary to Kouris Dam

Kouris Dam, Kantou, 4631, CY

Local tips

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views and optimal lighting for photography.
Pack a picnic to enjoy by the tranquil waters, making the most of the scenic picnic spots around the dam.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the surrounding trails and enjoy a leisurely hike.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons, to spot diverse avian species.
Check local weather conditions before your visit, as they can affect visibility and access to certain areas.

Getting There

Driving

From Limassol, head northwest on the A6 highway towards Paphos. Take exit 31A, signposted for 'Ypsonas' and 'Kouris Dam'. Turn right towards Kouris Dam. Follow the signs; the dam is approximately 15 minutes from the highway. Parking is available near the dam.
Public Transport

From Limassol's central bus station, take a bus to Kantou village. Check the bus schedule in advance as services may be limited. From Kantou, it's approximately a 2 km walk to Kouris Dam. Alternatively, local taxi services may be available from the bus stop to the dam. A single bus fare from Limassol to Kantou is approximately €2.
Taxi/Ride-share

A taxi or ride-share from Limassol city center to Kouris Dam takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare ranges from €25 to €35. Ensure the driver knows the location, as it's a popular destination.

Discover more about Kouris Dam

Kouris Dam, known in Greek as Φράγμα Κούρη, stands as the largest dam in Cyprus, a testament to the island's commitment to water management and a captivating destination for tourists seeking natural beauty and tranquility. Located in the Limassol District, near the village of Kantou, the dam is easily accessible and offers a serene escape from the bustling coastal areas. The dam's history is rooted in the severe droughts of the 1970s and 1980s, which underscored the urgent need for a large-scale water management system. Constructed in 1988, the Kouris Dam was designed by the French company Sogreah, with assistance from the Cypriot company Hydroconsult. The construction cost amounted to CYP £29,000,000, with partial funding from the European Investment Bank. The dam was officially inaugurated on April 22, 1989. The dam lies at an altitude of 250 meters and collects water from the Kouris, Limnatis, and Kryos rivers. Additionally, a 14.5-kilometer tunnel diverts water from the Diarizos River to the dam, expanding its catchment area to 300 square kilometers. The dam has a central clay core zoned earthfill embankment with a height of 110m and a crest length of approximately 550 metres, providing a water storage volume of 115 million cubic metres. Kouris Dam has overflowed three times since its construction: on March 4, 2004, April 6, 2012, and January 7, 2020. These overflow events, caused by heavy rainfall, are celebrated by locals as symbols of renewal and collective relief. Today, Kouris Dam offers visitors a range of activities and attractions. The dam is open to the public 24/7, allowing visitors to enjoy its serene beauty at any time. While swimming and fishing are generally restricted to protect the water supply, the area offers peaceful walking trails and picnic spots. Birdwatchers will find Kouris Dam to be a haven, particularly during migration seasons. The reservoir attracts a variety of bird species, including herons, cormorants, and flamingos.