Matala

Matala: the caves, the beach and the legend of the 60s

Few places in Crete have the personality of Matala. On the southern coast of the prefecture of Heraklion, a bay with golden sand and clear waters is closed on one side by an imposing sandstone, dug by dozens of caves. They are tombs from Roman and early Christian times, which in the 1960s became home to a thousand hippies from all over the world. Even today, the name Matala carries that aura of freedom.

Today the caves are an archaeological site that you can visit for a small fee, the beach in front of them is one of the most photographed in Crete, and the sunset behind the rock is something you will remember for years. The village behind the beach is small and relaxed, with taverns on the beach.

How to get to Matala from Heraklion

Matala is about 70 kilometers from Heraklion, a journey of about an hour and a quarter. You take the road towards Mires and Phaistos, pass through the fertile plain of Messara and descend towards the sea through the picturesque Pitsidi.

Public transport to the south coast is sparse and leaves you with limited time. With your own car, you can arrive at your leisure, stop at the archaeological site of Phaistos on the way, and stay for the sunset without running for the last bus.

What to see and do

Spend time in the caves and climb a little higher for a view of the bay. From the main beach, a path takes you in about twenty minutes to Kokkini Ammos, a more secluded beach with reddish rock, ideal for those who want a little solitude. In the afternoon, a drink at a seaside tavern and the sunset close the day ideally.

If you have time, combine the excursion with Phaistos and Agia Triada, two important Minoan sites that fall on your route from Heraklion.

Good to know

Matala gets crowded in the summer months, so arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter beach and easy parking. Bring water, a hat, and hiking shoes if you're planning on heading to Kokkini Ammos. With a stop at Phaistos on the way down, your day is filled with history.