Matala: hippie caves, the spirit of freedom and the long road to Red Beach. Crete Matala: what to see, how to get there, what the weather is, what kind of hotels and beaches
75 km southwest of Heraklion, on west bank Mesar valley is a small resort village of Matala and the beach of the same name. The picturesque bay in which the village is located is surrounded on both sides rocky mountains with many caves. Matala beach is considered one of the best beaches in Crete.
The history of this settlement is rooted in the distant past, in the Neolithic era. It was then that in the rocks surrounding the bay, were artificially created numerous caves used as housing. Probably, the ancient settlement reached its heyday in the Minoan era, when on the site of today's village there was a harbor of the city of Festus, one of the most important centers Minoan civilization. During the period of Roman domination, Matala was also a port, but already of the ancient Roman city of Gortyn. In the 1st and 2nd centuries A.D. ancient caves were used to bury the dead. One of the caves is called Brutospeliana ("Brut's Cave"), because according to ancient legend it was visited by the famous Roman general Brutus.
For a long time Matala was a small fishing village. It began to gain its tourist popularity in the 60s of the last century. Then the picturesque bay and ancient caves were chosen by hippies. But after the collapse of one of the caves and the death of a person, free access to the cave was closed. Today, the cave tombs are protected by the archaeological service and are available to tourists as part of an organized tour.
Matala lives mainly on tourism. Warm and crystal clear Libyan Sea, gentle sun, chic sand beach, picturesque nature, cozy hotels and apartments, cafes and taverns with traditional cuisine- there is everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Greek Crete is famous beach resorts And tourism infrastructure. On the island you can comfortably spend your holidays and get vivid impressions not only in major cities. So, Crete Matala, a small town lurking on the south coast and sheltered from the sea winds by two powerful rocks, endows with a special tourist charm. Tourists in Matala are attracted by the rich historical past, unique natural views, azure expanse sea bay and cozy sandy beaches.
By virtue of climatic features countries, almost all tourists go to Greece in order to sunbathe under the scorching sun and swim in the warm Mediterranean waters. It seems to be nothing special, but the island of Crete makes this vacation simply unforgettable.
The fact is that here every corner of the area is rich in picturesque landscapes and unique historical heritage. So, Matala is the place where the first ancient cities appeared, which were caves and catacombs carved into the rocks. They were formed in the Neolithic era, i.e. 10 thousand years ago! Later, exiled Christians hid in these catacombs, and in our time, hippies have chosen the caves. The cult of "Peace and Love" still hovers over the town.
Ancient caves line the coast of Matala. So at any time you can turn a vacation at sea into an amusing trip on the history of ancient Greece. The main thing is to stock up on comfortable clothes beforehand so that rock climbing is as safe as possible.
Crete Matala - location and attractions
Matala is a very modest town, almost a village. However, it is one of the most popular tourist places and sights of Crete. From Heraklion, the capital of the island, to Matala about 83 km to the southwest.
The settlement is located on the south coast in the picturesque bay of Messara. Thanks to the gently sloping shore and the protection of the rocks surrounding the beach on both sides, in ancient times they built sea port. It has not survived to this day: as a result of natural processes, the remains of the port part of Matala sank. But now it is a great attraction for diving enthusiasts.
The undoubted "highlight" of the town are the rocks with ancient caves. Tourists love to climb the catacombs, studying the dwellings of ancient people and the first Christians. If you climb to the top of the mountain, you can admire a unique view from above, covering the village, the coast, and the azure expanse of the endless sea. And fans of extreme sports are invited to dive into the Libyan Sea from a conquered height.
There are tourist symbols in the urban area of Malta. At the entrance you will see an olive decorated with stones and carvings. Its design symbolizes the diversity of love. And not far from the tree you will find a legend of the 70s: a painted Volkswagen minibus, which became calling card hippie movements.
What to see around Matala
Many attractions are located in the vicinity of the village. Those who wish can visit temples and monasteries, the ruins of ancient cities and palaces, Roman baths and semi-wild beaches. You can get to other cities by taxi or on your own in a rented car.
On the way to the north, at a distance of 10 km from the village, there is the famous palace complex Fest. An ancient clay disc was discovered here, the inscriptions from which historians still cannot decipher. This disc is now in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
In Minoan times, Phaistos was second in importance to Knossos. In general, the palace completely repeats the layout of the Palace of Knossos. The building is located on a hill, so that your eyes will see not only a monument ancient culture but also a wonderful panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes.
A little further from Matala is Gortyna - ancient city Crete. IN ancient times Gortyn was cultural center with a highly developed civilization. Many monuments of ancient architecture have been preserved here. different years. Among other things, tourists will be able to see the Basilica of St. Titus, the Odeon, the temple of Apollo, the sanctuary of Isis and Serapis, etc.
Of the natural attractions, it is worth visiting Lake Zaros and the Agiofarango Gorge. Artificially formed on the site of an olive grove, the lake attracts tourists with its beauties and the purest water. Around the reservoir there are walking paths with benches where you can relax and enjoy the pleasant coolness.
As for the gorge, the glory of a “prayed” place goes about it. According to legend, hermits used to live here, and even Saint Athanasius himself (the founder of the Great Lavra on Athos) came to these places to communicate with God. And today tourists note the special tranquility and detachment of this place.
Having made a small road trip along the coast of Malata to the east, you will reach Agia Galini. This town, immersed in greenery and flowers, captivates tourists with its "Venetian architecture". Quiet and cozy streets with souvenir shops and cafes are closed to car traffic, so nothing prevents you from enjoying the beauty of the city and Greek nature.
Agia Galini is known for its sandy beaches and many coves that can only be accessed by sea. So it will not be difficult for vacationers to choose a secluded beach and take a boat to right place. Local residents are actively developing tourism in their town, so it is easy to find hotels near the beach and stay in the town for a couple of days.
Weather in Matale (Crete)
Due to the isolation of the bay by two rocks, not hot weather reigns in Matale, but the sea always warms up to comfortable temperatures. The city itself is buried in greenery and flowers, which is also facilitated by a favorable climate.
Another feature of Matala - beautiful sunsets, which have no equal in all of Greece. The town is lucky geographic location, And locals actively use this advantage. All cafes and taverns are equipped so that in the evenings tourists enjoy the beautiful spectacle of the setting sun.
Matala beach in Crete
Being in the bosom of the bay, Matala beach is reliably protected from the western and east winds. The approach to the sandy coast is a gentle slope. For cars, there are two parking lots: free and for 5 euros per day, located a little closer to the beach.
Wide sand strip allows you to comfortably accommodate everyone: divers, swimmers, connoisseurs of sunbathing, and lovers of beach volleyball. There are several cafes and taverns on the shore, as well as equipped areas with sunbeds and umbrellas. Renting beach amenities will cost 4 euros.
Completing beach holiday, do not forget to look into the ancient catacombs and caves of Matala. They represent big interest both historically and architecturally. And if you stay on the coast until dark, you can admire the artificial lighting of the rocks.
Extreme lovers can visit the nearby Red Beach. A steep one leads to him mountain path Therefore, this hike is not recommended for people with a fear of heights. The view of the coast more than pays off hard way to the beach. The stones and sand here are orange-red, and even the sea water has a pinkish tint.
How to get to Matala
The easiest way to get to these picturesque places is with a rented car. You can order a car right before your arrival in Heraklion, and travel safely with the help of a navigator throughout the island. To get from Heraklion to Matala, you should go to the National Highway and follow it to Mires. At the sign, turn to Mires, and after passing the city, navigate along road signs with the designation Matala (Μάταλα).
For those who love comfort, but do not want to “turn the steering wheel” while traveling, we recommend ordering a taxi to the airport. If you do this in advance, the driver will meet you right on arrival. The price of a trip to Matala varies between 80-100 euros.
It is possible to get to the south coast with the help of public transport. But Here not without a transplant. First you need to get from Heraklion airport to station number 2. Bus number 78 runs on this route. The ticket price when purchased at the box office is 1.5 euros. You can buy a ticket from the conductor, but at the same time its price will increase to 2 euros.
Arriving at bus station number 2, you need to transfer to a direct flight from Heraklion to Matala. On weekdays, it runs twice a day (09.00 and 12.30), on Saturday 3 times (7.30, 11.30 and 12.45), and on Sunday one (15.30). The price of a one-way ticket is about 8 euros.
Matala Hotels
There are small hotels and cozy hotels in the town. You can find housing both in the immediate vicinity of the Cretan beach of Matala, and in areas remote from the center. When choosing a hotel, be guided by your needs and the location of Matala hotels on the map.
On average, the price per night in a double room is 35-40 euros, in a triple room from 55 euros. The hotels offer all the amenities necessary for a comfortable stay: swimming pool, Wi-Fi access, transfer order, excursions, transport rental, playgrounds and additional entertainment.
In addition, Matala can be visited in one day, participating in tourist excursion across Crete. The cost of such a sightseeing trip from Heraklion starts from 40 euros.
With a holiday in Matale, Crete will open up to you from a new side. small town with an azure lagoon surrounded by ancient rocks, will pleasantly surprise even sophisticated tourists. It is not for nothing that Matala receives enthusiastic feedback from travelers and is one of the best Cretan resorts.
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Matala - amazing village on the south coast of the island of Crete in Greece. According to one of the versions of ancient Greek myths, Matala was the place where Zeus, having turned into a bull, transferred the Phoenician princess Europa, kidnapped by him.
What to do and what to see in Matale?
Hippie culture in Matale
As soon as you drive into it, you immediately feel the spirit of freedom reigning here. It is not known whether this is a cause or a consequence of the fact that hippies from all over the world came here in the 1960s, including young Americans who refused to participate in Vietnam War. They lived in caves carved into a huge rock that goes into the blue sea. These caves were created in the Neolithic era and were used for burials during the period of early Christianity. Well, much later they were inhabited by "children of flowers" who lived here, created, breathed full chest and caroused. A creative, spiritual atmosphere reigned here, inspiring to create. The Rolling Stones even visited here, famous musicians lived at one time, including Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin and Joni Mitchell. But after an accident, when a cave collapsed and a person was injured, all informal residents were expelled from this place. And only the history and the unique spirit of this place remained ... Now access to the caves is open to everyone for 3 euros. You can admire them from the side for free, swim nearby in the blue sea and take some cool photos.
Music festival in Matale
Matala can be considered a cult place among the followers of the hippie culture, fans of the rock style in music and inspired by the "spirit of freedom". It is held here every year music festivals. So in 2017, Matala Beach Festival was held on June 16-18. This open-air dedicated to love and peace in the world (Peace and love!) gathers more than 50 thousand people annually. Share your impressions in the comments if you managed to attend this event! And if it did not work out, but this topic is close to you and you are planning a vacation in Greece, do not miss this event next year! Free admission!
The village of Matala in Greece left its mark not only in the history of the island, but also in mythology: according to legend, Zeus the Thunderer, in a fit of love, having kidnapped the Phoenician princess Europe, transferred her first to Matala, and then further, to Gortyn.
Matala is located on the southern coast of Crete, and in ancient times there was a port here: first Festa, and later, already under the Romans, Gortyn.
It was here, not far from Matala, that the Arab conquerors landed in 824 under the leadership of Abu Hafs Omar.
How to get there
Many tourists appreciated how convenient it is to move around.
That's how you get there from Heraklion to Matala. Car rental is relatively inexpensive: in the local company ANNACARS, a Toyota Aygo 1.2 car can be rented for as little as 335 euros. Moreover, it is quite possible to reserve a car in advance, via the Internet, using the company's website.
You don’t even need an advance payment for this: simply informing the employee of the company the number of your mobile phone, as well as the flight number, date and time of arrival, a prudent tourist already at the airport receives his car, which will travel around the island.
For those who are not going to rent a car, there is a regular bus service.
True, direct bus route from Heraklion airport to Matala is not provided.
Therefore, you will first have to take the city bus number 78 at the stop, which is located near the airport, and drive up to the bus station number 2. If you buy a ticket in a stall, it will cost 1.5 euros; A ticket from the conductor costs 2 euros.
A bus ticket from the second bus station of Heraklion to Matala costs 7.80 euros. IN weekdays there are two flights (9 00, 12 30), on Saturdays - three flights (7 30, 11 30, 12 45), on Sundays - one flight (15 30).
Tourists who don't want to wait scheduled bus ordering a taxi. This can be done in advance, via the Internet, and then the driver will meet the client right at the airport.
The approximate cost of a taxi ride to Matala is 80 euros.
What is in the vicinity
Lies in ruins ancient Festus, curious tourists inspect ruins of ancient Gortyna, and Matala, having survived all historical upheavals, is not only alive, but also looks to the future with optimism.
Calling Matala a village or a village is a matter of taste, although, thanks to the semi-rural, semi-urban architecture, Matala may well pass for a very tiny, but, nevertheless, comfortable town.
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is only 83 km from Matala (to the northeast), to picturesque archaeological sites Phaistos, where the palace complex is located, comparable in value to that of Knossos, and well preserved rhea temple Cybele, - only 11 km.
You can also go to Gortyn, where the very first residential building in Crete, built in the fifth millennium BC.
Tourists are invited to see temples of Isis And Serapis, Odeon- the sanctuary of the Pythian Apollo, Roman baths and built in the fifth century AD Basilica of Saint Titus.
Considering the fact that renting a car in Crete is the simplest and most common thing, many of the most interesting places on the island are located from Matala, as they say, within walking distance.
But even if the tourist is not a driver and by nature is not inclined to frequent trips, in Matale itself there is also something to please the eye of a vacationer.
Quite a bit of history
The favorable climate and convenient location of Matala contributed to the fact that people settled here as early as the Neolithic era, about 10,000 years ago.
It was at that time that primitive hunters and hollowed out many caves in the soft stone of the rocks surrounding the local beach.
The first Christians, hiding in these rocks from persecution by the authorities, appreciated the convenience of the caves. Today, in the caves around Matala, one can find the remains of catacomb temples and the burial places of the first believers.
In the seventies of the last century, the era of hippies and American aggression in Vietnam, the real hippie pilgrimage.
Evil tongues claim that not all “flower children” were such staunch supporters of the hippie ideology: it was just that in the Matala caves it was safe, fairly cheap and with relative comfort to “sit out” the mobilization.
In any case, Johnny Mitchell and Bob Dylan honored the local "commune" with their presence, which made caves of matala"widely known in narrow circles."
True, after the ceiling collapsed in one of the caves, killing a man, the village authorities stopped the idyll, kicked out the hippies and forbade everyone to enter the caves, except organized excursions and only in the morning hours.
Despite the fact that the locals breathed a sigh of relief when the eternally drunk brawlers who periodically staged obscene orgies left their lands, travel business adopted the legend of the "city of hippies".
Today, in the city of Matale, you can find many cars painted with colorful flowers and other symbols of the legendary rebels.
The hippie style in Matale is mercilessly exploited by several Matale cafes.
sandy beaches
Matala beach- it's just a little paradise for lovers of sunbathing and swimming. A piece of gentle sandy shore it is fenced off by rocks, as a result of which waves are here only when the south winds blow.
The beach is literally next to the village, and it is very popular place rest, so there are always a lot of people here.
The area is well landscaped. Renting an umbrella here costs two euros, and renting a sunbed will also cost two euros.
You can also use the car park for two euros.
Near the beach, there are also several supermarkets, so that vacationers can have a pretty decent bite to eat: for example, a portion of moussaka and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice will cost about eight euros.
Those who are not looking for easy ways in life can visit another beach - the so-called red beach (Red Beach), which is located 500 m south of Matala.
True, 500 m is if you go in a straight line, and there is simply no direct road to the Red Beach.
In order to get there inquisitive tourist you will have to go through a mountain, almost “goat” path, which is strongly not recommended for those who are afraid of heights. But from the pass above the beach offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding mountains.
There is another road, longer, but also more convenient, but not everyone knows about it.
It starts in Matale itself, and it is better to ask the “natives” about where to find this path.
Those who are not afraid of the hard road will be rewarded: Red Beach- one of the most beautiful places Matala. The stones and sand here are colored reddish-orange, and even the coastal sea water has a pinkish tint. Red Beach has long been chosen by nudists, but there are also many ordinary vacationers.
The prices on the Red Beach are exactly the same as on the main one: 2 euros for a sunbed, 2 euros for an umbrella. In a small bar you can buy soft drinks, ice cream, beer.
Cafes and restaurants
There are 23 restaurants, cafes and bars in Matale, and each institution has its own unique flavor.
Not far from the main beach of Matala is a tavern Hakuna Matata. Proximity to the beach causes a somewhat inflated price level of the institution, however, excellent service, very tasty Greek cuisine(fish and vegetable dishes are especially tasty), the unique flavor of the hippies and the majestic landscape that opens from the terrace contribute to the fact that the institution does not experience a lack of customers.
An interesting detail is that even the menus here are handmade and painted in the style of a hippie. A plate of soup with croutons will cost a tourist about five euros, and you can eat more or less normally for about fifteen to twenty euros.
You can have a quick bite, laying out, depending on the order, 4 - 12 euros, in a nice cozy pancake " G&G Corner”, named after the owners - Gregory and Jojiana.
Despite the name, there are many Greek and American fast food dishes on the menu: pancakes with various fillings, pizzas, pitas, hamburgers, delicious desserts with natural ingredients.
It is famous for its wide range of fish and vegetable dishes. family restaurant Lions Cafe also located close to the beach. There is a surprisingly varied menu, and restaurant guests can get to know them better by ordering the so-called “dish of the day”. The average bill in this restaurant ranges from five to twenty-five euros.
Hotels in Matala
Shivas Village Resort
The four-star Shivas Hotel combines modern comfort with original classic interiors. Room price - from 50 euros per day.
Address: 70200, Greece, Prefecture of Heraklion, Matala, Odigitrias Street (Sivas).
The beach is about five kilometers from here, which can be overcome by car or bicycle. morning walking tour under the canopy of trees to the sea will take about an hour.
The hotel is located in a very picturesque place, among the mountains, and literally immersed in flowers. From the roof of the hotel, where there is a restaurant, opens view of the ancient fortress of Heraklion built by the Venetians.
Guests can use the swimming pool, tennis courts, free Internet access (Wi-Fi), book an excursion right at the hotel, rent a car or bicycle.
You can relax and have fun on foot and horse rides, in the scuba diving center.
Armonia Hotel
This is a three star hotel. The daily cost of a double room is from 36 euros, for a triple room - from 60 euros.
Located at: 70400, Greece, Heraklion Region, Matala, Matala.
The main beach from here is approximately 800 m (10 minutes walk), to the Red Beach - 1.6 km (20 minutes walk).
There is a pool on site, surrounded by sun loungers and umbrellas, and a bar with soft drinks is open from 7 am to 11 pm.
You can rent a car, a bicycle or book a transfer directly at the hotel, and a tour desk also offers its services.
There is a special playground for children.
The "chip" of the hotel is organic products grown on its own plantations.
Hotel Coral Matala
Very cozy two star family hotel. The hotel is located so well that from it to the center of Matala - 500 m, and to the main beach - 600 m.
Address: 70200, Greece, Heraklion Region, Matala, MainStreet.
The cost of a double room - from 37 euros, triple - from 55 euros per day.
For couples, it is especially convenient here that pets are allowed in the hotel.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Guests are served a bar and a restaurant. A buffet is offered in the morning.
Guests can take advantage of the outdoor swimming pool and massage services.
The operation of the parking lot is free.
The sandy beach of Matala is located in the southern part of Crete. And what is special about it? - you ask.
First, it is very picturesque here. The beach is surrounded by trees and shrubs, between low mountains.
Secondly, the water temperature does not drop below 26°C during the season. Swimming in the Libyan Sea is comfortable, and due to the mountains and vegetation, vacationers are not too bothered by the scorching sun. True, the winds here are quite strong. On the one hand, it is a little unpleasant, especially for those who prefer to just lie on the beach. But on the other hand, Matale has more than suitable conditions for surfing and other water sports sports.
Thirdly, the beach, and the whole village near which it is located, faces west, which means that there are amazingly beautiful sunsets here.
Fourthly, other attractions of Crete are located near the coast - the Phaistos Palace (Festos), ancient city Gortyn, Red Beach. Getting to all this is not a problem, except for the last attraction. But more on that later.
And finally, fifthly, Matala was awarded blue flag. So, there is everything for a comfortable beach holiday.
By the way, in the reviews on the forums, many tourists call Matala the best beach in all of Crete! We hope we have given more than good reasons for visiting this picturesque coast.
Matala beach is surrounded on both sides by mountains with many caves that can be visited for a small fee.
Photo: flickr.com/ [email protected]
How to get to Matala
If you are on one of the Southern resorts Crete, for example, in Agia Galini, you can only get to Matala by taxi or rented car. Unfortunately, regular buses along south coast No. The distance between Agia Galini and Matala is 28 km. For a taxi, give 45-50 euros.
If you are in the northern part of the island, you will see on the map that Matala lies 75 km southwest of the capital - the city of Heraklion. Regular flights depart from bus station No. 2 to the beach village: on weekdays - at 9:00 and 12:30, on weekends - at 7:30, 11:30, 12:45. The ticket costs 8 euros, and the whole journey will take about two hours.
You can take the city bus from Heraklion to your destination.
A taxi from Heraklion to Matala will cost at least 100 euros.
For those who rest in Rethymnon, we tell you: there are no buses to the village from it. The distance between the resorts is 78 km. For a taxi ride you will have to pay 115-120 euros.
You can also rent a car and drive in comfort. Day car rental in Crete - an average of 50 euros + the cost of gasoline.
Facts about the beach itself
Matala is located in the bay. Its length coastline- 300 m. The sea is a beautiful blue color, it reflects the white rocks surrounding the beach.
The photos here are simply gorgeous, especially at sunset!
Sunsets on the coast evoke romantic thoughts ...
Photo: flickr.com/ [email protected]
The coast is a mixture of light gray sand and small pebbles. The entrance to the water in places passes through stone slabs. natural origin. It gets deep about 15 meters from the shore and quite sharply, therefore, travelers with children need to be especially careful.
Give the children freedom, they would spend the night by the sea.
In the northern part (by right hand, if you stand facing the water) there is a cliff, from the top of which the most desperate jump into the water. Entertainment, so to speak, for an amateur, not the safest.
On one of the adjacent rocks there is observation platform. You can climb it along a completely safe wide ledge. Walk a little - 200 meters. Entrance costs 2 euros. From here, an amazingly beautiful landscape opens up.
The beach has been awarded the Blue Flag of Europe for many years in a row. The territory is regularly cleaned, and the coast itself is superbly equipped. Work:
- rescue tower;
- point of medical care;
- playground for volleyball and children - with swings;
- rental of beach and water equipment;
- toilets, showers, changing cabins;
- dozens of bars, cafes, souvenir shops.
After sea water you can shower in the shower.
Here are some examples:
- you can use the changing cabin, toilet and shower free of charge;
- rent of one umbrella and sunbed - 5 euros;
- for a delicious cocktail at the snack bar (for example, salted nuts) you will be asked about the same amount;
- water or cotton candy from a seller on the beach costs 1.5 euros, ice cream is twice as expensive;
- sun cream in the store - 5-7 euros.
Umbrella + sunbed will cost 5 euros, but you can also stay on a towel.
Regina and her family, Moscow:
“We spent two gorgeous days in the village of Matala. The beach is full of activities. On the first day we rented a boat (20 euros for half an hour), then we took a ride on water skiing- a little cheaper, 15 euros for half an hour. There are also "bananas", quad bikes, offer water excursions. In a word, you will never be bored! After active rest you need to refresh yourself, of course. There is where to do it - 23 establishments Catering. Go to the Petra & Votsalo tavern. Fast food, impeccable food. Try the freshest fish from the Libyan Sea in tomato sauce for 10 euros and pork in mushroom sauce for 9. Portions are large, one is enough for two adults. As a gift, they will bring you homemade wine, very sweet, or coffee with dessert.”
On the coast you will find cafes and taverns for every taste.
A few words about the village of Matala
The village is small but very colorful. Hippies lived here 40 years ago. They say that Johnny Mitchell and Bob Dylan came here. By the way, every year at the end of June, a hippie festival takes place in Matale. For several days in a row, music plays non-stop, alcohol flows like water, noise, dancing and endless laughter.
In the shops of the village you will definitely find hippie souvenirs.
In the village itself, there are many attributes associated with the life of "flower children". You can find graffiti on the walls, souvenirs in shops, painted sidewalks, even menus in local cafes painted in the style of this subculture.
If you decide to stay here, then in addition to a snack in a local tavern and small purchases, We advise you to go to the caves. There are plenty of them around Matala, and on the beach itself. They were created thousands of years ago by primitive hunters. It is known that at one time they became a refuge for Christians who hid here from the invaders. A little later, local hippies "sat out" the mobilization in them.
Hippie caves.
You can buy directly in the village excursion tours with a personal guide beautiful caves Matala. The cost is from 20 to 50 euros per person.
The caves overlook the village.
Photo: flickr.com/ [email protected]
Overnight stay and food will not be a problem. There is a large supermarket and some pretty decent shops, good taverns, cozy hotels.
Near the beach parking there is a supermarket with all the necessary goods.
Oleg and company from St. Petersburg:
“There is a small market in Matale, right at the entrance to the village. They sell, in addition to food and essentials, souvenirs and hippie clothes. Flags with the image of Bob Marley hang on the streets, in the center there is even a huge tree painted in this spirit. The place is, in short, impressive.”
At the entrance to the village there is such a carved tree.
Photo: flickr.com/batuk_bhagwan
Attractions nearby
If you are traveling by rented car, we advise you to explore interesting places located near Matala. mountain roads in southern Crete are wide and safe.
Nearby, a little to the south, there is a picturesque place - the coast of Red Beach. It got its name because of the fine sand of a reddish hue. This beach is only 500 m from Matala, but direct hiking trail- this is a narrow and unsafe serpentine. If you do not want to take risks, you will have to go around the village by car.
On Red Beach it is possible to rent a sunbed and an umbrella, there are a couple of bars. But you can't count on complete comfort. There are no water equipment rentals or shops nearby. By the way, this place is popular with nudists. In general, if you decide to go here, you will find a beautiful sandy beach, blue sea and solitude.
11 km northeast of Matala is the legendary historical complex- Phaistos Palace. Under open sky excavations are still taking place, archaeologists are still finding artifacts here.
Ruins of the Phaistos Palace.
Photo: flickr.com/eemeez
interesting the ancient city of Gortyna, 23 km north of Matala. Homer gave him a flattering description of "strong-walled." Here the first began to print coins in Crete, erected a Christian church. Tourists are interested in visiting the temples of Isis, Serapis, the sanctuary of the Pythian Apollo.
Epilogue
The village of Matala and the nearby beach will appeal to those who love unusual holiday. The sea here is very clean, great for swimming and diving. The beach is well organized. Sunsets are beautiful. Around full of shops, cafes, hotels. Interesting place, visit it!
