Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Kournas
Explore the serene beauty of Kournas, Crete's hidden gem featuring stunning landscapes, freshwater lake adventures, and delightful local cuisine.
Nestled in the heart of Crete, Kournas is a picturesque village surrounded by stunning landscapes and the enchanting Kournas Lake. It's a perfect getaway for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure.
A brief summary to Kournas
- Kournas, GR
Local tips
- Visit Kournas Lake early in the morning for the best views and to avoid crowds.
- Try the local taverna for authentic Cretan dishes; they often use ingredients sourced from the surrounding area.
- Bring a swimsuit if you plan to swim in the lake; the water is refreshingly cool, especially in the summer.
- Consider renting a bicycle to explore the scenic routes around the lake and the village.
- Check local events for traditional festivals that showcase Cretan music, food, and dance.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the center of Rethymno, start at the Old Harbor. Head south on the main street, Odos Arkadiou, towards the intersection with Odos Kountouriotou. Turn left onto Kountouriotou and continue straight until you reach the bus station at the end of the street. From the bus station, take the KTEL bus towards Georgioupoli. The bus ride will take approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Georgioupoli, follow the signs to Lake Kournas, which is about a 15-minute walk from the bus stop. Just head east on the main road, follow the signs, and you will reach Kournas Lake.
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Public Transport
From the Old Town of Rethymno, walk to the KTEL bus station located at Kountouriotou 61. Purchase a ticket for Georgioupoli, which costs around 5 euros. Board the bus heading towards Georgioupoli. The journey will take about 30 minutes. When you arrive at the Georgioupoli bus station, exit the bus and walk straight out of the station. Turn left on the main road, and continue walking until you see signs for Kournas Lake. It will take you approximately 15 minutes on foot to reach the lake.
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Bicycle Rental
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bicycle from one of the many rental shops in Rethymno. Start your journey from the Venetian Harbor and head towards the main road leading out of the city. Follow the signs to Georgioupoli along the coastal road. The distance is approximately 20 km, and it will take around 1 hour to reach Georgioupoli. Once you arrive, park your bicycle and walk towards Kournas Lake, which is about a 15-minute walk from the center of Georgioupoli.
Discover more about Kournas
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Agios Nikolaos
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Παλαιό Φουγάρο
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Globe
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Ancient Venetian Shipyard
16.8 km
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Ηρώο, Εθνικής Αντίστασης
16.8 km
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Iroon Politechniou Square
16.9 km
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Rethymnon Municipal Garden
17.0 km
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Pyritidapothḗkē
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Venetian Fortezza Castle
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Ali Vafi's garden
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Church of Our Lady of the Angels
17.1 km
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Central Gate of the Fortress of Rethymnon
17.2 km
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Guora gate
17.2 km
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Pl. Tessaron Martiron
17.2 km
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Folk Museum
17.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lake Kournas Souvenir
2.5 km
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Lake Kournas
2.5 km
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Paralia Kourna
4.4 km
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Springs of Argyroupolis
4.5 km
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Green oasis Argiroupolis Springs
4.6 km
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Venetian Gate - Omnia mundi fumus et umbra
4.7 km
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Archaeological site of Lapa
4.8 km
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Church of the five virgins
4.8 km
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Ancient Lappa
4.8 km
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Georgioupoli
6.0 km
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GEORGIOUPOLIS SAFARI JEEP - QUAD - BOAT
6.2 km
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Episkopi beach
6.6 km
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Kalyvaki beach
6.6 km
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Myriokephala Monastery
6.7 km
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Πετρές Ρεθύμνου
8.2 km
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Essential places to dine
Georgia's Traditional Taverna
2.6 km
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CAVO Rethymnon Restaurant
15.3 km
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Prima Plora Οrganic Restaurant & Wine Bar
15.3 km
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7 Thalasses Rethymno Restaurant
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ΘΕΑ ΘΑΛΑΣΣΑ/ THEA THALASSA
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Elaia Restaurant
17.2 km
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Castelo Restaurant
17.2 km
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Kapilio
17.2 km
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Avli rustic fine dining restaurant
17.2 km
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Asikiko
17.2 km
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Lemonokipos Restaurant
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To Pigadi Restaurant
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Stella's Kitchen
17.3 km
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To Parastratima
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Alana Restaurant
17.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mera
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Supermaket Entrée Ou Sortie Village
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White Cheese
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Cretan Lyra workshop - Stagakis museum - Traditional instruments
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E-shop point Ρέθυμνο
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Thursday market
17.1 km
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ANTIQUE - CRETE
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MELITAKAS Greek handmade art
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Souvenir Store Rethymno Shopping 2
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Fortezza gift shop
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Hand Made Leather Goods
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Atofio store
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Greek Unique Concept Gift Store
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GREEK SHOP
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Souvenirs Store Rethymno Shopping
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Monitor Art Café
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Antika Irish Bar
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Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar
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Cul de Sac - Cafe - Bar - Restaurant
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Rewine
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Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar
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Fraoules
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Chaplins
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Bonobo Bar
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Metropolis Society Bar
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DRINK N ROLL
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Queens Room Club Restaurant
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LivingRoom GastroBar Rethymnon
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Ηunkyfunkybar cocktail bar
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Ananas Cocktail Bar
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