Crete's only freshwater lake, Lake Kournas, is relatively large, with a perimeter of 3.5 km. There is a nature preserve on the Southwest side of the lake. There is a rustic road from the North of the lake to the Hills on the West of the lake.
The lake used to be called Koresia after ancient Korion, a city thought to be in the area with a temple to Athena. The lake used to contain eels but now is better known for its terrapins and tourism. Tavernas and pedalo rental shops line part of the shore.