Matala | The hippie village of Crete
Nestled on the southern coast of Crete, approximately 75 kilometers southwest of Heraklion, lies the captivating village of Matala. Renowned for its rich tapestry of history, mythological significance, distinctive caves, and vibrant cultural scene, Matala offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth.
The Iconic Caves of Matala
One of Matala’s most distinguishing features is the series of man-made caves carved into the soft limestone cliffs overlooking the bay. These caves date back to the Neolithic Age and have served various purposes throughout history. During the Roman era, many of these caves were used as tombs, while others believe they may have served as dwellings due to their spacious interiors.
In the 1960s, these caves found new life as they became a haven for the hippie movement. Drawn by the simplistic lifestyle and the natural beauty of Matala, hippies from around the world made these caves their temporary homes, leaving an indelible mark on the village’s cultural landscape. You can still visit the caves when you visit Matala. Keep in mind that you have to pay a small enterance fee. The enterance to the cave is locted on the side of the beach.
Matala Beach
At the heart of the village lies Matala Beach, a stunning stretch of golden sand framed by crystal-clear waters and the iconic cliffside caves. The beach is well-organized, offering amenities such as sunbeds and umbrellas, making it a comfortable spot for relaxation. You can rent sunbeds for a full day at a small fee. The beach is however big enough incase you do not want a sunbed. The waters are inviting, and the unique backdrop of the caves adds a sense of wonder to the beach-going experience. Matala is one of the bussiest beaches of the south of Crete. Get early to the beach for a good spot. Some beaches nearby, like Komos beach are very calm and not well known.
Best time to visit
Matala enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The optimal time to visit is between April and October, when the weather is conducive to beach activities and outdoor exploration. Visiting during the Matala Beach Festival in June offers a unique cultural experience, though it’s also the village’s busiest period
Excursions to Matala
Excursions from Heraklion
There are many different options for taking an excursion to Matala. Some include a full day excursion with a visit to historical sites while others only include the visit to Matala. Public bus transport is very limited and can be super crowded during the summer. The best way to reach Matala is by booking an excursion or driving to Matala by car.
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Matala Beach, Hippie Caves, and Gortyn Day Trip: This full-day tour departs from Heraklion and includes visits to the archaeological site of Gortyn, known for its ancient ruins. Participants then proceed to Matala, where they can explore the famous caves, enjoy the beach, and immerse themselves in the village’s vibrant atmosphere.
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Half-Day Trip to Matala Hippie Beach and Caves: Ideal for those with limited time, this 7-hour excursion offers a visit to Matala’s iconic beach and caves. Guests can swim in the crystal-clear waters, relax on the sandy shore, and delve into the history of the prehistoric caves carved into the cliffs.
Distance and Driving Time
Matala is about:
- 75 kilometers (47 miles) from Heraklion, which takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to drive.
- 66 kilometers (41 miles) from Rethymnon, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Chania, which takes about 2 hours.
These relatively short drives make Matala an easily accessible destination for anyone on Crete.
Driving Directions
From Heraklion:
- Start by heading south on the E75 highway from Heraklion toward Moires.
- Follow signs for Moires, then head toward Matala on a well-marked, scenic road.
- The drive offers views of the island’s natural beauty, from olive groves to hills, and as you approach Matala, the coastline opens up with breathtaking sea views.
From Rethymnon:
- Start by heading south on the E75 highway from Rethymnon toward Agia Galini.
- After passing Agia Galini, continue on the road and follow signs for Matala.
- This route takes you through traditional Cretan villages and countryside, offering a glimpse into local life and rural Crete.
Scenic Stops Along the Way
One of the benefits of driving to Matala is the opportunity to stop and explore some of Crete’s natural beauty and quaint villages along the way. Some suggested stops include:
- Gortyn Archaeological Site: Located near Moires, this ancient site was the capital of Roman Crete and features the famous Gortyn Law Code. A brief stop here offers insight into Crete’s rich history.
- Agia Galini: A small coastal village known for its charm and peaceful vibe. This is a great place for a coffee break with sea views before heading on to Matala.
Parking in Matala
Matala has several parking areas available, both near the beach and in the village center. During the high season (especially summer), it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure a parking spot, as the village can get quite busy.
- Beachside Parking: There is a parking lot near Matala Beach, but it can get crowded in the peak season. This is a paid parking. Only use this parking if you arrive early in the day, otherwise it will be full.
- Free Parking: Free parking is available on the side when entering Matala. The free parking is on the left side of the village. It is about a 12 minute walk to the beach from the free car parking.
