Until 400 years ago, the area found between the capes, “Zevgari” and “Gata” were found in the depth of the sea of Limassol, resulting to the areas covered by the salt lake of Akrotiri today being covered by part of the sea.
Later on, the emerging island cut the passage of sea water, thus creating the very well known sandy beach of “Aplostra” or “Lady’s Mile” of a length of 8 kilometres and a huge salt lake. Natural rivers do not have their mouths at the lake, and the water that runs into it comes from the sea, since it is found at a lower level. During the summer this lake dries up.
The Lake has an area of 18 square kilometres and it is the largest natural lake found on the island. It is a unique wetland and during the winter it hosts thousands of migrating birds. There are observatories of aquatic life on its shores, something that is transformed into a pole of attraction for the thousands of “ambitious” photographers of wildlife.
On the north shore, there is a forest with eucalyptus trees and on the east there is a marsh covered in reeds. It is surrounded by the villages of Akrotiri on the south, Fasouri on the northwest, Asomatos on the south and Tserkezoi on the northeast. On the east side there is a beautiful beach, the one of Aplostra, as well as the commercial port of Limassol.
At this period of time, a big part of the lake has already dried up and the flat bottom of it is used for the takeoff and landing of small unmanned model aircraft.
You can approach the lake when coming from different directions, according to the season and how much water is contained in its basin. A lot of attention is required at points found close to water. They may seem stable, but they may not be and you may find yourselves in a mire. The best and most secure access to it is made from the village of Akrotiri. Leave your vehicle far away and walk carefully towards the water, bearing in mind that your next step may take you to the mire of the lake.
