Exploring the historic village of Matala is a must for travelers seeking an immersive experience. The Matala Hippies Beach Half Day Tour offers an opportunity to uncover the region’s rich history and vibrant culture. From swimming in the Libyan Sea to sunbathing on the picturesque beach, this 6-hour excursion promises an unforgettable journey. With convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide, visitors can explore the captivating story behind the iconic caves and the area’s renowned hippie influence. Whether you’re a history buff or a beach enthusiast, this tour provides a unique chance to discover the essence of Matala.
Key Points
- Explore the historic Matala village, famous for its caves that were once Roman tombs and later a haven for 1960s-70s hippies.
- Swim in the crystal-clear Libyan Sea and sunbathe on the 250m long Matala beach, surrounded by stunning sandstone cliffs.
- Discover Matala’s vibrant counterculture legacy at the annual Matala Beach Festival, featuring live music, art exhibitions, and traditional Greek cuisine.
- Enjoy a guided tour with pickup, transport, and a live guide, providing an in-depth look at Matala’s rich history and natural beauty.
- The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a full refund available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
The Matala Hippies Beach Half Day Tour offers an immersive experience in the picturesque South Crete region.
Priced from €87 per person, this 6-hour excursion takes visitors to the historical village of Matala and its iconic hippie caves.
Travelers can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear Libyan Sea and sunbathing on the expansive Matala beach.
The tour includes pickup from select locations across Crete and features a live guide, modern air-conditioned transportation, and a €4 entrance fee for the caves.
Cancelations up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Guests should come prepared with comfortable attire, sun protection, and essential travel items.
Experience Highlights
Embarking on a guided day trip to South Crete from Heraklion, travelers will visit the historical village of Matala and its iconic hippie caves.
They’ll swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea and sunbathe on Matala beach, which measures 250m long and 45m wide.
Visitors can explore the Hippie village and walk to the nearby Red Beach.
Experiencing the Matala Beach Festival, held every June since 2011, is an additional highlight.
With its unique beachscape of sandstone rock cliffs and caves, originally used as Roman or early Christian tombs, Matala offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and counterculture legacy.
Historical Context
Situated on the Bay of Messara, 65 kilometers from Heraklion, Matala is a natural harbor known for its unique beachscape with sandstone rock cliffs and caves, originally hollowed out as Roman or early Christian tombs.
Matala has a history tied to the hippie movement of the 60s and 70s, when the caves became a popular haven for free-spirited travelers.
Today, Matala boasts over 400 Blue Flag beaches in Greece, ensuring cleanliness and safety, with lifeguards, first aid facilities, toilets, and showers.
It has become a hub for the annual Matala Beach Festival, held every June since 2011, celebrating its rich cultural heritage.
- Carved caves along the cliffs once served as Roman or early Christian tombs.
- Matala’s caves became a haven for hippie travelers in the 60s and 70s.
- The village now hosts the annual Matala Beach Festival every June since 2011.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes pickup and drop-off from main road or closest hotel points, as well as a live tour guide and a ride in a modern bus with full air conditioning.
Visitors can expect an approximate 3-hour visit to Matala Village, with an entrance fee of €4 to explore the caves.
However, food, drinks, and expenses for personal items aren’t included.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, heart problems, wheelchair users, or those over 95 years of age.
Visitors are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a change of clothes to fully enjoy the day’s activities.
Preparation and Recommendations
Visitors are advised to bring a few essential items to fully enjoy their Matala Hippies Beach Half Day Tour.
The tour involves exploring historical caves, wandering through the picturesque village, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea.
To make the most of this experience, it’s recommended to pack:
- Comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the strong Mediterranean sun.
- A towel, swimwear, and a change of clothes for the swim and beach portion of the tour.
With these essentials, visitors can enjoy the rich history and stunning natural beauty of Matala.
Exploring Matala Village
Matala village, a picturesque coastal town in southern Crete, captivates visitors with its unique blend of ancient history and 1960s counterculture.
Explore the famous Matala caves, once used as Roman and early Christian tombs, now a testament to the hippie movement that flourished here in the 60s and 70s.
Wander the charming narrow streets, lined with quaint tavernas, shops, and street art.
Soak up the sun on the 250-meter-long, 45-meter-wide beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning sandstone cliffs.
Discover the Matala Beach Festival, an annual celebration of the village’s vibrant past, held every June since 2011.
With its captivating history and laid-back atmosphere, Matala offers a glimpse into Crete’s enduring cultural legacy.
Caves and Rock Formations
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Matala, the distinctive sandstone cliffs and caves captivate visitors.
Originally carved as Roman or early Christian tombs, these natural formations now serve as a unique backdrop for visitors to explore.
The tour highlights three key features:
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The iconic Matala caves, which were once inhabited by hippies in the 1960s and 1970s, offering a glimpse into the area’s counterculture history.
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The striking red-hued cliffs that line the Libyan Sea, creating a dramatic natural amphitheater.
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The picturesque beach below, where visitors can swim and sunbathe in the crystal-clear waters.
Matala Beach Festival
As part of the Matala – Hippies Beach – Half Day Tour, visitors can experience the vibrant Matala Beach Festival, held annually in June since 2011.
This lively event celebrates the village’s hippie history and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy live music, art exhibitions, and traditional Greek cuisine.
The festival’s highlight is the colorful parade, where locals and travelers alike don bohemian attire and dance through the streets.
With its laidback atmosphere and picturesque setting, the Matala Beach Festival offers a unique insight into the region’s counterculture past and present.
Attendees can enjoy the carefree spirit that has made Matala a beloved destination for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Recommended Restaurants or Eateries in Matala?
The tour doesn’t include recommendations for restaurants or eateries in Matala, but visitors can explore the local tavernas and cafés along the beachfront and harbor area to sample traditional Greek cuisine during their free time.
Can We Extend the Tour Duration to Explore Matala Further?
The tour duration can be extended, but this would come at an additional cost. Visitors who wish to explore Matala more thoroughly should consider booking a full-day tour or arranging private transportation to have more time in the area.
Are There Any Unique Souvenirs or Local Products to Purchase?
The tour offers various unique local souvenirs and products to purchase, such as handcrafted pottery, traditional textiles, and olive oil. Visitors can also find authentic Greek snacks and delicacies to bring home as mementos of their Matala experience.
What Is the Dress Code or Attire for the Matala Beach Festival?
The Matala Beach Festival encourages a casual, free-spirited beach vibe. Visitors typically wear swimsuits, shorts, sundresses, or other lightweight, comfortable clothing. Beachwear and bohemian styles are common, but there’s no strict dress code to adhere to.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Physical Limitations for the Tour?
The tour is not suitable for individuals with certain mobility issues, heart problems, wheelchair users, or those over 95 years old. However, there are no strict age restrictions for participants.
Recap
The Matala Hippies Beach Half Day Tour provides an immersive opportunity to discover the historic village, iconic caves, and vibrant beach culture that have captivated visitors for decades. With convenient transportation, knowledgeable guides, and time to swim, sunbathe, and explore, this tour is an ideal way for travelers to experience the unique charm and rich heritage of Matala.