South Crete: Tour to Matala Hippies Beach & Gortys Archaeological Site

Spend a day at the south part of Heraklion Region. Discover its coast and scenic landscapes of Matala, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea and take a walk to the world-wide known Caves of the Village, shelter of the hippies during 60’s&70’s. Enjoy the views over the bay and walk around the streets of the village to do some souvenir shopping or have lunch.

During this tour you will also visit, the archaeological site of Gortyn, the Roman capital of the island of Crete which area was first inhabited around 7000 BC.

Reaching the southern coast of Crete we will enter the village of Matala with its amazing landscapes, colourful shops and restaurants and the absolutely unique atmosphere.

The village has long history dating back to Neolithic Age and it is well known for its artificial caves carved in the cliff of the bay during that period. During the Minoan time the village was a port of Phaistos and during the Roman period it belonged to Gortys.

During the 1960s 1970s the places was occupied by “flower children” and became one of the most popular places in Crete for hippies from all around the world.

According to Greek mythology here at the beach of Matala the Zeus brought the princess Europa abducting her in the form of white bull.

In Matala you will have time to explore the caves, swim in the cristal waters of the Libyan sea and sunbath on the beautiful beach, go for shopping or enjoy the lunch in one of the numerous taverns around the bay.