Plizio Visual Lab
Kannaviou Dam
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Lake
Weather…
Water temperature…
Kannaviou Dam is a significant habitat and an evocative landscape in Cyprus. A dam in the Paphos district forming a lake surrounded by pine forests, offering a serene landscape. Through the year, water levels, salt or freshwater zones, reedbeds and exposed mudflats shift in turn, creating convenient conditions for wading and water birds, insects and rare plant communities. Interpretive panels, viewing platforms and well-marked paths allow respectful access without disturbing wildlife. Birdwatchers particularly appreciate spring and autumn migration, when large flocks rest on the lake. Photographers are drawn by wide horizons, mirror-like reflections and intense sunsets, while researchers value the site as a long-term ecological reference. Together these qualities make the lake a model of low-impact ecotourism alongside ongoing scientific monitoring.
- Location: Cyprus
- Nearby: Argaka (18 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 12 | 14 | 17 | 20 | 24 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 22 | 17 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 89 | 55 | 33 | 18 | 13 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 10 | 27 | 43 | 92 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Accessing this serene forest lake typically involves navigating rural routes through the mountainous sections of the Paphos district.
Best season
The transitional seasons of spring and autumn generally offer the best temperatures for enjoying the surrounding pine forests without intense heat.
Terrain & paths
The landscape features a mix of dirt forest trails and uneven natural paths that gently slope down towards the edges of the calm reservoir.
What to bring
Good hiking shoes are usually necessary for the forest trails, and bringing adequate water and a light jacket for mountain breezes is advisable.
Parking
Visitors normally find space to leave their vehicles near the main engineering structure of the dam or along wider sections of the approach road.
Safety
General precautions include staying well away from the dam's steep drop-offs and being mindful of local wildlife while walking in the pine forest.
Time needed
Most nature enthusiasts spend roughly two to three hours here, allowing enough time to explore the forest perimeter and admire the scenery.
Geography
Facts
- Kannaviou Dam is an important habitat for wading and water birds.
- Salinity and water levels change significantly through the year.
- Reedbeds and mudflats provide food and breeding sites.
- Viewing points allow observation without disturbing wildlife.
- Large flocks gather here during spring and autumn migration.
- The area is also exceptionally rewarding for photography.
- The lake forms part of a monitored conservation framework.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Kannaviou Dam (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Kannaviou Dam located?
In the Paphos district, near the village of Kannaviou and Paphos Forest.
Is fishing allowed there?
Yes, fishing in the reservoir is permitted with a license.
Are there picnic areas?
There is an official picnic site nearby with toilets and drinking water.
What is the purpose of the dam?
It mainly serves for the irrigation of agricultural land in the surrounding area.
Is the dam of interest to tourists?
Yes, due to the beautiful landscape and tranquility, it's a nice stop on forest tours.
Kannaviou Dam: where is it located?
Kannaviou Dam is located in Cyprus.
Kannaviou Dam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Kannaviou Dam: why is it worth visiting?
Kannaviou Dam is a significant habitat and an evocative landscape in Cyprus.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Cyprus →
Nearby cities
Mesa Geitonia
Mesa Geitonia is a district and municipality in the Limassol metropolitan area.
Kato Polemidia
Kato Polemidia is a suburb to the northwest of Limassol.
Kissonerga
A historic coastal village near Paphos, known for its banana plantations and archaeological excavations.
Kakopetria
A picturesque village in the Solea Valley, known for its preserved historic quarter, rushing streams, and the famous Agios Nikolaos tis S…
Argaka
A peaceful coastal village in Cyprus featuring the beautiful Mavralis Beach, offering spectacular sunsets and a serene Mediterranean geta…
Pissouri
An authentic Cypriot village perched on a hillside with a separate beach area in a sheltered bay.
Pedoulas
A terraced village in the Marathasa Valley, famous for its cherry orchards and the UNESCO-listed Church of Archangel Michael.
Platres
A sophisticated mountain resort in the Troodos range, famous for its waterfalls, boutique chocolate workshops, and cool summer air.
Livera
Livera is an idyllic coastal village in the northwest of Cyprus.
🗺️
Orga
A quiet coastal village in Northern Cyprus, known for its untouched nature and crystal-clear waters.
Mount Olympus (Chionistra)
The highest peak in Cyprus, located in the Troodos Mountains, offering ski slopes in winter and cool hiking trails in summer.
Troodos
The green heart of Cyprus featuring Mount Olympus, cool pine forests, and UNESCO-protected barn-roofed churches.
History & landmarks
Nature
🗺️
Evretou Dam
The third largest dam in Cyprus, creating a scenic reservoir in a remote valley.
Xeros River Valley
A valley known for its Venetian bridges, such as the Kelefos Bridge, crossing the Xeros Potamos.
Kouyou Kourou Monastiri Caves
A complex of man-made caves in the Paphos district, believed to have been used as a hermitage.
🗺️
Asprokremmos Dam
The second largest dam in Cyprus, offering panoramic views and a tranquil environment.
🗺️
Gialia River
A river in the Paphos district that creates a green valley, flowing into the sea at the coast of Gialia.
🗺️
Diarizos River
One of the longest rivers in Cyprus, its valley is home to lush vegetation and several old bridges.
More places
Mouflon Enclosure Stavros tis Psokas
A protected enclosure in the Paphos Forest where you can see the endemic Cyprus Mouflon.
Xeros Valley
The Xeros Valley is located in the Paphos region.
🗺️
Vouni Panayia Winery
One of the first local wineries in Cyprus, offering stunning views and wines from indigenous grapes.
Stavros tis Psokas Forest Area
This central forest area is known for its pristine nature and as a refuge for the rare Cyprus mouflon.
🗺️
Kolios Winery
A winery with a restaurant overlooking the vineyards, offering a complete gastronomic experience.
Cedar Valley
A beautiful, secluded valley in the Paphos Forest, famous for its thousands of endemic Cyprus Cedars.
Tripylos Peak
One of the highest peaks in the Paphos Forest, offering breathtaking views of the Cedar Valley.
Letymbou Village Vineyards
A traditional wine village in the Paphos district surrounded by vineyards growing local grape varieties.