Kournas, a charming village in Crete, is famous for its peaceful freshwater lake, traditional tavernas, and lush surroundings. It’s a favorite spot for travelers seeking authentic experiences beyond the beaches. Whether you want a guided day exploring nearby villages, a private tour of Chania, or a horseback ride among scenic trails, Kournas offers a variety of options. We especially like the From Rethymno tour for its combination of natural beauty and cultural insight, and the SoulRide horseback experience for those craving tranquility and connection with nature. Each tour emphasizes genuine Cretan hospitality and scenic highlights, making them worth considering for your trip.
Quick Overview
This list covers guided group tours, private explorations, and adventure-based experiences around Kournas and nearby areas. From a full-day tour of Lake Kournas, Argyroupolis, and Georgioupolis to a personalized private tour of Chania, each experience offers unique ways to see the best of what Crete has to offer []. For travelers interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures, there’s something here for every pace and preference.
1. From Rethymno: Lake Kournas, Argyroupolis & Georgioupolis
This full-day guided tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive look at the area’s natural and cultural highlights. Starting with round-trip transportation from Rethymno, it visits the only freshwater lake in Crete, Lake Kournas, which is famous for its calm waters and beautiful scenery. You’ll also explore the quaint village of Argyroupolis, where natural springs and traditional streets create a peaceful setting, and relax on the sandy beaches of Georgioupolis with time for swimming or just soaking up the sun.
What makes this tour stand out is its balanced itinerary: you get a taste of local history, stunning landscapes, and leisure time. Your guide provides commentary about Crete’s cultural roots, making the experience both informative and enjoyable. The scenic drive between stops offers plenty of chances for photos, and the stops at gift shops and local tavernas add to the authenticity. With a rating of 5/5 from 2 reviews, travelers appreciate the early-season tranquility and the varied stops. One reviewer noted, “Very early in the season so not too many people, and the lake had a lot of options for food and shopping.”
Bottom line: This tour offers a well-rounded, stress-free day exploring Crete’s natural beauty and charming villages—ideal for first-timers or those wanting a taste of everything.
2. Best of Chania Sights & Lake Kournas Full Day Private Tour
At number 2 on our list, this private full-day tour combines the historic charm of Chania’s Old Town with the relaxing scenery of Lake Kournas. Starting from Chania, your guide takes you through iconic sites like the Old Venetian Harbour and the Old Public Market, offering plenty of time for shopping, strolling, and savoring local flavors. For those who love a mix of culture and nature, this tour provides personalized attention and flexibility.
What makes this experience unique is the personalized itinerary and the focus on hidden details of Chania’s architecture and history. The highlight is the walk around Lake Kournas, which presents a peaceful setting perfect for photos or just unwinding. During the drive, your guide shares insights into Crete’s history, adding depth to the experience. Guests often praise the professionalism and knowledge of their guides, making it a favorite for couples or small groups seeking comfort and tailored attention.
This tour is priced at $395 per person with an estimated 8-hour duration, making it suitable for travelers wanting a luxury, customized experience. It’s best suited for those who appreciate private guidance and want to see both the cultural and natural sides of western Crete.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a flexible, private day with expert insights—especially couples or small groups craving personalized service.
3. Private Tour of Chania: History, Culture & Beauty
For those seeking a short, intimate experience, this private tour of Chania packs a lot into just an hour. You’ll visit key sights like the Venizelos Graves, the Holy Monastery of Agia Triada of Tzagaroli, and the archaeological site of Aptera. The tour then concludes with a stop at Lake Kournas, giving you a quick but rich overview of Crete’s historical and scenic highlights.
This tour is ideal if you’re short on time but want a personalized, detailed introduction to Chania’s most significant sites. Your guide provides tailored commentary, sharing stories behind the landmarks, and offering plenty of photo opportunities. The private nature means you can customize the route slightly or stay longer in spots that interest you most, making it a flexible option.
Guests appreciate the personal touch and the opportunity to explore at their own pace. Since it’s just 1 hour, it’s best for time-constrained travelers or those wanting a quick overview before heading elsewhere.
Bottom line: A good pick for travelers seeking a personalized, brief sightseeing experience with the flexibility to focus on what interests them most.
4. Rethymno Bali & Panormo: Chania City & Kournas Lake Day Trip
If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines beach time, city sightseeing, and lake relaxation, this trip hits the spot. Starting with exploring Chania’s Old Town and Venetian Port, you get four hours of free time to wander, shop, or dine before heading to Lake Kournas for swimming and pedal-boating. The itinerary balances cultural exploration with outdoor activity, making it suitable for travelers who want variety.
What sets this trip apart is the longer free time in Chania, giving you the flexibility to customize your experience. The pedal-boat activity at Lake Kournas adds a fun, hands-on element, especially for families or active travelers. The 9-hour duration makes it a good choice for those who want a comprehensive day without rushing.
Reviewers note the beautiful scenery and relaxed pace, and many appreciate the free time in Chania to explore at their leisure. The tour offers good value, considering the length and variety of activities involved.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure, with enough free time to soak in Chania’s charm.
5. Rethymno Half Day Wine Tasting, Olive Oil Factory & Kournas Lake
For wine and food lovers, this half-day tour combines a winery visit, olive oil tasting, and a relaxing stop at Lake Kournas. Starting from Rethymno, you’ll visit a family-run olive oil factory, where you can see how the local product is made and sample fresh-pressed olive oil. Then, you’ll tour a local winery, tasting a variety of Crete’s best wines.
The highlight is the time at Lake Kournas, where you can pedal boat or swim in the clear waters, making it a perfect short escape into nature. This tour offers a blend of culinary delights and scenic relaxation, giving insight into Crete’s iconic products.
Guests mention the friendly guides and the delicious food tasting. The 5.5-hour format makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting a taste of Crete’s flavors without a full day commitment.
Bottom line: Great for food and wine enthusiasts wanting a rich, compact experience combining culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.
6. SoulRide: Horseback & Mindful Escape in Kissamos
For travelers craving peace, outdoor activity, and reflection, this horseback riding experience in Kissamos offers a special way to connect with Crete’s landscape. Starting from Chania, you’ll ride through olive groves and wild trails with stunning mountain and sea views. The ride lasts about 1.5 hours and is suitable for all levels.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on mindfulness and tranquility. After riding, you can unwind with a meditation session by Falasarna Beach or relax at a secret stop for photos and regional food. The private experience ensures personalized attention and a calm pace.
Guests describe the ride as gentle and scenic, perfect for those looking to de-stress and reconnect. The 2-hour regionally focused experience is well-suited for outdoor lovers and anyone wanting to step away from busy sightseeing.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those seeking a mindful outdoor activity that combines gentle adventure with mental refreshment.
How to Choose Your Ideal Kournas Experience
When selecting the best tour for your trip, consider your interests, time availability, and budget. If you’re after a full day of sightseeing with variety, the From Rethymno or the Chania full-day private tour fit well. On the other hand, if a short, personalized overview appeals, the Private Chania Tour offers a tailored experience.
For foodies and wine lovers, the Rethymno half-day combines culinary tastings with scenic lake time. Active travelers or those craving tranquility might prefer the SoulRide horseback experience, which emphasizes mindfulness and outdoor riding.
Always check availability in advance, especially during peak season, and consider the travel pace you prefer. For a luxury or private experience, booking early ensures you get the most out of your time in Crete.
Final Thoughts
Kournas and its surrounding areas offer a variety of tours and experiences that suit many interests. Whether you want a full day of cultural sights and lakeside relaxation, a private guided tour, or a peaceful horseback ride, there’s something for all. For families, couples, or solo travelers, these tours provide authentic ways to enjoy Crete’s natural beauty and local charm.
If you’re planning your trip, we recommend considering what kind of experience fits your style—whether it’s a guided group tour, a private exploration, or an adventure activity. Booking ahead is especially wise for popular options like the Full Day Private Tour of Chania, to ensure availability and avoid disappointment. Happy exploring!