Lake Korission, Corfu by nature

There's no other place like Lake Korission in the whole of Corfu. Just as you get used to the rugged coastline, indented beaches and rolling countryside of the north and centre of the island, the scenery changes dramatically when you reach the lake, which marks the entrance to southern Corfu.

Around Lake Korission, the altimeter hovers closer to zero! The waters, rarely troubled, cover several thousand hectares. Forming a veritable lagoon, they are protected from the sea by a long strip of sand, the largest beach in the whole of Corfu: Chalikounas. Lovers of space will appreciate this, as will lovers of unspoilt nature: the entire area of Lake Korission is a Natura 2000 site.

In places, the sandy deposits give rise to real reliefs: the dunes on the Issos beach side can be over 15 metres high! Another special feature of the shores of the lake is the Phoenician juniper forests, which are often mistaken for cedars in these parts, adding a touch of fragile greenery: these shrubs are known for their slow growth, so it's a good idea not to pull out their branches!

A bird's paradise, Lac Korission is home to over a hundred species, including great cormorants, egrets, wild ducks and even pink flamingos! Visitor numbers vary according to the season, as the lake is a stopover for many migratory birds.

Lake Korission is a breath of fresh air for those who prefer less crowded, virtually undeveloped areas to noisy resorts and crowded beaches. Along Chalikounas, you can always find a secluded spot beyond the last beach bar. Even naturists will find suitable spots here, undisturbed.

The water along Chalikounas beach is superb, although sometimes windy. It's a well-known spot on Corfu for a variety of water sports, not least kitesurfing. There are local clubs offering lessons and equipment hire, as well as windsurfing, paddleboarding and pedal-boating, for those who want to do more than just relax in the sun. On the Korission lake side, swimming is possible, but less pleasant due to the lack of depth on the shore. A stroll along the banks is more of an opportunity to observe the birds that inhabit the area, camera in hand!

In a similar vein to Chalikounas, the beach at Issos, with its high dunes, is still unspoilt in the area around Lake Korission: a perfect place to get away from it all, and even to feel alone in the world out of season. Then, as you head towards Agios Georgios, civilisation reappears with its deckchairs and parasols, beach activities and seaside hotels.