Akrotiri Lake in Cyprus
The sea is an obvious treasure of Cyprus. However, near the island’s largest coastal city, there is also a salt lake!
Limassol Salt Lake
Limassol Salt Lake, also known as Akrotiri, is the largest inland body of water on the island of Cyprus. It is located within the British Sovereign Base Areas, to the southwest of Limassol, covering an area of 10.65 km².
Its lowest point lies 2.7 meters below sea level, and at its deepest point, the water depth is about one meter. Geologists hypothesize that the lake was formed through the gradual connection of a coastal islet off the southern shore of Cyprus.
The lake itself is considered one of the most important wetlands in the eastern Mediterranean. More than half of the lake has a depth of less than 30 centimeters, which attracts thousands of marsh birds that use it as a stopover site during migration between Africa and Europe. According to estimates by BirdLife International, between 2,000 and 20,000 greater flamingos spend the winter months at the lake.
Nature Observation Center
The center, located in the village of Akrotiri, has been operating since October 2004 with the aim of promoting the unique ecological and cultural significance of the Akrotiri Peninsula through programs and exhibitions.
The center consists of an exhibition hall, a library, a projection room, and a wildlife observation kiosk, offering educational programs for schools about the history and habitat of the region. Visitors can view exhibits related to the protected Akrotiri Peninsula, the geological structure of the area, and also enjoy views of the lake. Birdwatching binoculars are also available for observing birds.
- The center is open from 08:00 to 13:30, Monday through Friday
- Phone: +35725826562
How to get to Akrotiri Lake
The lake is located very close to Limassol, but there is no direct public transport to it. The nearest bus stop is My Mall, served by routes 7, 18, 20, 21, and 30. From there, you can take a taxi or walk.
The easiest way to rent a car is via Localrent (you can find offers for compact cars starting at 10 euros per day). But there are other options too — read about them in our car rental guide for Cyprus.
Frequently Asked Questions about Akrotiri Lake
Does Akrotiri Lake dry up?
In summer, the lake usually dries up and refills during the winter and spring rainy season.
When can you see migratory birds at the lake?
The lake fills with water in winter and from November to March becomes a habitat for migratory birds.
What birds can be seen at the lake?
Among the birds wintering in the shallow waters of Akrotiri Lake are flocks of thousands of flamingos, cranes, birds of prey, and migratory waders.
What interesting places are nearby?
Near the lake is the popular beach — Lady's Mile. You can combine a visit to the lake with a swim in the sea. Also nearby is the Monastery of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, popularly known as the “Cat Monastery”.
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Author
Born and raised in Yekaterinburg, visited more than 40 countries, lived in the USA for some time, and in 2022, moved to Northern Cyprus. Education: Ural State University (now Ural Federal University), Faculty of Political Science and Sociology. Professional Experience: Since 2008, worked in the…