FAYOUM OASIS /
Lake Qarun
Water not moving is apparently a great attraction in Egypt, and Lake Qarun is the largest lake in the entire country, 45 metres below sea level. It is gradually developing into a resort, both with beaches, beach resorts and now also holiday houses. Early in the day, green fishing boats rest on the eerie calm lake, almost melting with the sky. Only the backdrop of the desert in the north break this unity. Bird watchers can have nice time here, with 88 species nest around the lake, including flamingoes. Lake Qaroun was too salty for fish for a long time, until marine species were introduced in the 1970's. These include eel, mullet, sole and shrimp. But apart from a beautiful sight or two, I believe that most foreigners can calmly leave Lake Qarun to the Egyptians themselves. The amenities here area limited, and if a lazy day on the beach is your thing, the Red Sea resorts, as well as Marsa Matruh and Alexandria has a better offer. I remember a trip with a rowing boat here one day in 1999. Out on the lake, I discovered the true depth of the expression: "So what!"
