Korission Lake is found in the south west part of Corfu’ near the Agios Mattheos village and about forty minutes from the capital.
In reality, more than a lake we can define it as an elongated salt water lagoon that covers six hundred hectares of territory. Considered the main wetland of the island, thanks to these characteristics it is one of the most important areas for the protection of wild fauna and flora, so much so that it is included in the Natura 2000 project in order to conserve endangered species.
Also known by the Korisia name, it is over five kilometers long, two kilometers wide and divided from the sea by a narrow strip of soft sand and dunes which sometimes reach up to fifteen meters in height where tamarisk trees, reeds, white water lilies andaround fourteen different species of orchids. The entire area that ends with a forest represents an important and delicate ecosystem where one hundred and twenty six species of birds find refuge, including the almost endangered silver herons. Remember that Korission Lake is located right on one of the major migratory routes and consequently manages to host many animal and plant varieties thanks to its climatic and morphological conditions. Thousands of butterflies are attracted to the salt pans, proliferating and filling the area. There is no shortage of amphibians, reptiles and fish, so much so that the local community is more involved in fish farming, still using ancient techniques such as small flat bottomed boats called Koritos.
During some archaeological excavations, hippopotamus bones, Paleolithic stones and artefacts were also found, confirming the past human presence in the reservoir.
Two beautiful beaches: Halikounas beach is the point where the lagoon separates from the Ionian Sea with its stupendous expanse of coarse sand bathed by clear, crystalline waters, so much so that it earns the Blue Flag every year. Wild and untouched, it looks like Eden, everything is still in its original state and you will hardly find it crowded, it could be that you will meet few people during the day. Going south it joins the Ionian and to cross the stretch there is a wooden bridge. Continuing you enter a beautiful forest of thorny juniper also known as cedar. Its position exposes it to the winds, sometimes creating waves, in fact, this part of Corfu’ is much loved by those who practice windsurfing or kitesurfing who, when the weather conditions are perfect, gather to have fun making acrobatic jumps on the sea.It is not served, here only nature so if you decide to come, remember to bring everything you need.
The other coast is Issos beach which stretches up to three kilometers and is surrounded by Chalikounas beach to the north and by San Giorgio beach to the south. Soft golden sand with dunes that protect the hinterland from the tides, some dating back to the Pleistocene, a transparent sea with shallow waters ideal for lovers of snorkeling and swimming. It too is sometimes windswept, making it a paradise for those who love sports where Aeolus is the undisputed master. The beach of Issos is partly equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas and the rest is just wild nature.
The lake or Korission lagoon, define it as you prefer, is to the west so for those who don’t know yet, it is the part of the planet where the sun sets. Right here you can witness one of the most beautiful shows of creation and considering the area in full balance with Nature, imagine what you can experience.
A stop to absolutely include among the things to do in Corfu’ to discover this side of the island not only made up of parties and fun but of pure ecstasy in its simplicity and naturalness.
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