Chania Agia Lake

Location: Therissos

Located only 10 kilometers west of Chania, near the small village Agia, Agia Lake (also known as Limni Agias) is a popular place for birdwatching.
The small lake houses over 200 species of migratory and native birds, as well as insects such as dragonflies and although it is artificial, it is part of the Natura 2000 network due to its biodiversity.

The lake's waters come from the mountains known as Lefka Ori and the river Xekolomeno and they do not dry out during the summer. A stroll around the lake will allow you to explore the thriving ecosystem and admire both the naturally occurring and the planted vegetation.

The Lake of Agia was created with the intention to exploit the water supply to create hydropower energy. However, this project was abandoned and so were the facilities of the energy factory, allowing the lake to develop into one of the most ecologically significant wetlands in Crete.

The best times of the year to go there for birdwatching are autumn and spring. It is also recommended to visit the lake early in the morning or before sunset.
The tourist facilities available in this area include two cafes that have become quite popular due to the views.

While walking around the lake, you will get to see the former hydroelectric power plant, a bridge and the old Church of Panagia.