Nicaragua the "land of lakes and volcanoes" is so called because these create fabulous landscapes in the country. Lake Nicaragua, also known as Cocibolca, is Nicaragua's most outstanding feature. This fresh water lake covers an extension of 5136 square kilometers. The Spanish Conquerors called it "The sweet water ocean" because of its immensity. The lake contains some salt-water species such as the bull shark that adapted over time to live in the fresh water lake . The lake has several archipelagoes, the largest is called Solentineme, and is standing apart because of its natural beauty and cultural charm. Here, communities of artists have turned the region into the cradle of Nicaragua's native art. The archipelago has 386 islands of which the most attractive is Ometaoe Island. It has two great volcanoes: Concepción and Madreas. Volcan Concepción  has has a perfect cone, considered the most picturesque of all volcanoes in Central America. Zapatera Island, also located in Cocobolca Lake, is a National Park where tourists may appreciate the natural beauty and see pre-Colombian archeological pieces. Las Isletas, an the archipelago of volcanic origin at volcano Tomacho base are only two miles away from city of Granada. You can easily get to Las Isletas from Asese Marina or Cabaña Amarilla and Marina Cocibolca. fromtwhere you can take a boat ride through the beautiful canals and enjoy nice water-front restaurants as well. Volcan Masaya is one of the most outstanding of Nicaragua's volcanoes is a National Park and is accessible to tourists who can easily reach its enormous crater. From many vista points you can view gas emanations and solidified lava. The volcano is positioned between the cities of Masaya and Managua, only an hour drive from Granada. Volcano Mombacho, overlooking Granada, is easily accessible where you can find interesting fauna and flora. The magnificent crater lake Laguna de Apoyo lies about halfway between Granada and Masaya. It is known for its clear blue water and the deepest point in Central America (some 500 meters).  The Laguna has its own fascinating ecosystem, making it a wildlife paradise. There is accommodation at the Laguna, both high-end and budget oriented. Both offer non-motorized water sports on the lake.