From Heraklion: Matala, Hippies Caves & Ancient Gortyn

Explore the rich history and laidback charm of Crete’s southern coast on this day trip from Heraklion. Explore the ancient ruins of Gortys, where Minoan and Roman civilizations converged. Then, unwind at the picturesque Matala Beach, where you can swim, explore the famous "Hippie Caves," and savor a seaside lunch. This tour offers a compelling blend of culture and leisure, providing a glimpse into Crete’s past and present. What secrets await discovery as you venture beyond Heraklion’s borders?

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day excursion from Heraklion to explore the ancient ruins of Gortys and the famous Hippie Caves of Matala.
• Guided tour of the Gortys Archaeological Site, showcasing 5,000 years of Minoan, Roman, and Byzantine history.
• 4.5 hours of leisure time at Matala Beach, allowing for swimming, cave exploration, local cuisine, and shopping.
• Tour includes pick-up/drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, skilled driver, and knowledgeable guide in multiple languages.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and public liability insurance included.

Overview and Booking Information

For this Heraklion to Matala, Hippies Caves & Ancient Gortyn tour, visitors can expect a full-day excursion priced from €1,077 per person.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned bus, a skilled driver, and a knowledgeable guide.

The duration ranges from 9 to 10.5 hours, and the experience is offered in multiple languages: English, French, German, and Italian.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. An additional fee of €7 per person applies for pickups from Lygaria and Agia Pelagia.

Public liability insurance coverage is included, providing peace of mind for participants.

Itinerary and Destinations

Commencing the tour from various pickup locations around the Heraklion region, which include Kokkini Hani, Heraklion, and Malia among the 14 options, the journey takes visitors on a scenic bus ride to the archaeological site of Gortys.

Here, a 1.5-hour guided tour explores over 5,000 years of history.

The tour then continues to the renowned Matala Beach, where guests enjoy 4.5 hours of swimming, cave exploration, seaside lunching, and shopping.

Highlights and Experiences

The tour offers several captivating highlights and immersive experiences for visitors.

Explore the historic ruins of the Gortys Archaeological Site with a knowledgeable guide, who’ll share insights into over 5,000 years of history.

Enjoy a leisurely day at the renowned Matala Beach, known for its beachside caves and clear waters perfect for swimming.

Discover the area’s hippie legacy and indulge in local cuisine with a seaside lunch.

The scenic bus rides to and from the destinations provide opportunities to take in the picturesque landscapes.

This well-rounded tour promises a fulfilling exploration of Crete’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Additional Costs

This tour includes a range of valuable services and amenities to ensure a seamless and enriching experience.

Pickup and drop-off from various locations, an air-conditioned bus, a skilled driver, and a knowledgeable tour guide are all part of the package. Entrance fees to the Gortyn Archaeological Site (€6) and the caves (€4) are also covered.

However, there’s an additional fee of €7 per person for pickups from Lygaria and Agia Pelagia. All participants are covered by public liability insurance, providing an extra layer of assurance.

Whether you’re an adult, youth, child, or senior, this tour offers a comprehensive and worry-free way to explore the historical and natural wonders of Matala, Hippie Caves, and Ancient Gortyn.

Participant Information

Five age categories are available for this tour: Adult (18-64), Youth (13-17), Children (4-12), Infant (3 and younger), and Senior (65-99).

The overall rating for this tour is 4.6 out of 5 based on 5 reviews. Feedback highlights positive experiences regarding historical insights, beach enjoyment, and tour guide support.

The tour is suitable for a range of participants, from families to seniors, ensuring a memorable experience exploring Matala’s Hippie Caves and the ancient ruins of Gortyn.

Pickup Locations and Options

Offering 14 convenient pickup locations, travelers can choose from options including Kokkini Hani, Heraklion, Malia, and more, ensuring a seamless start to their day exploring Matala’s Hippie Caves and the ancient ruins of Gortyn.

Whether guests are staying in Kokkini Hani, Heraklion, Malia or other nearby towns, the tour provides easy access, allowing everyone to join the adventure.

With a wide range of pickup points, the tour caters to the diverse needs of visitors, making it simple to begin the unforgettable journey from Heraklion to uncover the captivating history and natural wonders of this stunning region.

Guided Tour at Gortys

On the tour, guests embark on a 1.5-hour guided exploration of the Gortys Archaeological Site, delving into 5,000 years of captivating history. Led by a knowledgeable guide, visitors uncover the ruins of this ancient city, once a thriving center of Minoan and Roman civilizations. The site features impressive architectural structures, including the remains of temples, basilicas, and a legendary law code inscribed on stone tablets.

Key Attractions	Significance
Minoan Palace Ruins	Showcasing the advanced engineering and urban planning of the ancient Minoan culture
Roman Basilica	Exemplifying the architectural influence of the Roman Empire on the region
Law Code Inscriptions	Providing insights into the sophisticated legal system of the ancient world

Guests leave the Gortys tour with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Crete.

Leisure Time at Matala Beach

After exploring the ancient ruins of Gortys, the tour then escorts visitors to the renowned Matala Beach, where they can indulge in a leisurely 4.5-hour respite.

Travelers can swim in the clear turquoise waters, discover the famous beachside caves, and enjoy a seaside lunch sampling local cuisine.

The tour provides ample time to stroll along the charming seaside shops and soak up the laidback, bohemian atmosphere that has earned Matala its reputation as a former hippie haven.

This scenic coastal destination offers the perfect balance of history, natural beauty, and relaxation to cap off the day’s adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour doesn’t offer customization options. It follows a set itinerary covering Gortyn, Matala Beach, and other highlights. However, travelers can choose their pickup location from the 14 available options to suit their convenience.

What Type of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?

The tour uses an air-conditioned bus for transportation. Pickup and drop-off are included, with 14 pickup locations available. The bus ride to Gortys takes 2 hours, and the return trip from Matala is also around 2 hours.

Are Any Meals Included in the Tour Package?

The tour package includes a seaside lunch at Matala Beach, allowing participants to experience the local cuisine. However, no other meals are provided as part of the tour.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Private Group?

The tour can be booked for a private group, though additional fees may apply. Travelers should check with the tour operator for pricing and availability of this option.

What Are the Health and Safety Protocols in Place?

The tour operator follows all local health and safety regulations. Masks are required on the bus, and sanitizer is provided. Guides maintain social distancing during tours. Flexible cancellation policies allow for changes due to illness.

Recap

The "From Heraklion: Matala, Hippies Caves & Ancient Gortyn" tour provides an enriching blend of historical discovery and leisurely beach time. Guests explore the ancient Gortys site, then enjoy the laid-back, bohemian atmosphere of Matala Beach, where they can swim, explore caves, and savor a seaside lunch. This day trip offers a perfect balance of culture and relaxation.