The village of Matala in Greece left its mark not only in the history of the island, but also in mythology: according to legend, Zeus the Thunderer, in a fit of love, having kidnapped the Phoenician princess Europe, transferred her first to Matala, and then further, to Gortyna.

Matala is located on the southern coast of Crete, and in ancient times it was here a port: first Festa, and later, already under the Romans, Gortyna.

It was here, not far from Matala, in 824 that the Arab conquerors landed under the leadership of Abu Hafs Omar.

How to get there

Many tourists appreciated how convenient it is to get around.

This is how you can get Heraklion to Matala... Car rental is relatively inexpensive: in the local company ANNACARS, a Toyota Aygo 1.2 car can be rented for only 335 euros. Moreover, it is quite possible to reserve a car in advance, via the Internet, using the company's website.

You do not even need an advance payment for this: simply by telling the employee of the company your number mobile phone, as well as the flight number, date and time of arrival, the prudent tourist already at the airport receives his car, which will travel around the island.

For those who are not going to rent a car, there is a regular bus service.

However, there is no direct bus route from Heraklion airport to Matala.

Therefore, first you have to take the city bus number 78 at a bus stop located near the airport, and drive up to the bus station number 2. If you buy a ticket at a stall, it will cost 1.5 euros; the ticket from the conductor costs 2 euros.

A bus ticket from the second bus station of Heraklion to Matala costs 7.80 euros. On weekdays there are two flights (9:00, 12:30), on Saturdays - three flights (7:30, 11:30, 1245), on Sundays - one flight (15:30).

Tourists who do not want to wait for a regular bus order a taxi. This can be done in advance, via the Internet, and then the driver will meet the client right at the airport.
approximate cost taxi ride to Matala - 80 euros.

What's in the vicinity

Lies in ruins ancient Festus, curious tourists visiting ruins of ancient Gortyna, and Matala, having gone through all the historical vicissitudes, is not only alive, but also looks to the future with optimism.

Calling Matala a settlement or a village is a matter of taste, although, thanks to the semi-rural, semi-urban architecture, Matala may well pass for a very tiny, but, nevertheless, comfortable town.

To Heraklion, the capital of Crete, from Matala, only 83 km (northeast), to the picturesque archaeological site of Festa, where the palace complex is located, comparable in value to Knossos, and well preserved temple of Rhea Cybele, - only 11 km.

You can also go to Gortyna, where the very first residential building in Crete, built in the fifth millennium BC, is located.

Tourists will be offered to explore here temples of Isis and Serapis, Odeon- sanctuary of Apollo the Pythian, Roman baths and built in the 5th century AD Basilica of Saint Titus.

Considering the fact that renting a car in Crete is the simplest and most common thing, many of the most interesting places on the island are located from Matala, as they say, within walking distance.

But even if the tourist is not a driver and by nature he is not inclined to frequent trips, Matala itself also has something to please the eye of a vacationer.

Quite a bit of history

The favorable climate and convenient location of Matala contributed to the fact that people settled here in the Neolithic era, about 10,000 years ago.

It was at that time that the primitive hunters and hollowed out many caves in the soft rock of the rocks surrounding the local beach.

The first Christians, hiding in these rocks from persecution by the authorities, appreciated the convenience of the caves. Today, in the caves around Matala, you can find the remains of catacomb temples and the burials of the first believers.

In the seventies of the last century, the era of hippies and American aggression in Vietnam, the present began in the Matala caves. hippie pilgrimage.

Evil tongues argue that not all "flower children" were such staunch supporters of the hippie ideology: it was just that in the Matala caves it was possible to safely, fairly cheaply and with relative comfort "sit out" the mobilization.

Anyway, the local "commune" was honored with their presence by Johnny Mitchell and Bob Dylan, which made Matala caves"Widely known in narrow circles."

However, after the ceiling collapsed in one of the caves, killing a man, the village authorities stopped the idyll, kicked out the hippies and banned the entrance to the caves for everyone, except for organized excursions, and only in the morning hours.

Despite the fact that the locals breathed a sigh of relief when their regions were left by the eternally drunk brawlers who periodically arranged obscene orgies, the tourist business adopted the legend of the “hippie city”.

Today in the city of Matale you can find many cars, painted with colorful flowers and other symbols of the legendary rebels.

The hippie style in Matale is mercilessly exploited by several Matala cafes.

Sandy beaches

Matala beach Is just a small paradise for sunbathers and swimmers. A piece of gently sloping sandy shore is fenced off by rocks, as a result of which waves are here only when southern winds blow.

The beach is literally next to the village, and it is a very popular holiday destination, so there are always a lot of people here.

The territory is well landscaped. Renting an umbrella here costs two euros, and renting a sunbed will cost two euros.
You can also use the car park for two euros.

Several supermarkets are briskly operating near the beach, so vacationers can have a decent snack: for example, a portion of moussaka and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice will cost about eight euros.

Those who are not looking for easy ways in life can visit another beach - the so-called Red Beach (Red Beach), which is located 500 m south of Matala.

True, 500 m is if you walk in a straight line, and there is simply no direct road to Red Beach.

In order to get there, an inquisitive tourist will have to go through a mountainous, almost "goat" trail, which is strongly discouraged for those who are afraid of heights. But from the pass above the beach, a stunning view of the sea and the surrounding mountains opens up.

There is another road, longer, but also more convenient, but not everyone knows about it.
It begins in Matala itself, and about where to find this path, it is better to ask the "natives".

Anyone who is not afraid of a difficult road will be rewarded: Red Beach- one of the most beautiful places in Matala. The rocks and sand are reddish-orange here, and even the coastal sea water has a pinkish tint. Red Beach has long been chosen by nudists, but there are also many ordinary vacationers here.

Prices on Red Beach are absolutely the same as on the main one: 2 euros - a sunbed, 2 euros - an umbrella. In the small bar you can buy soft drinks, ice cream, beer.

Cafes and restaurants

There are 23 restaurants, cafes and bars in Matala, each with its own unique flavor.

There is a tavern near the main beach of Matala Hakuna Matata... The proximity to the beach leads to a somewhat inflated price level of the institution, however, the wonderful service, very tasty Greek cuisine (especially delicious fish and vegetable dishes), the unique hippie flavor and the majestic landscape that opens from the terrace contribute to the fact that the institution does not experience a shortage of clients.

An interesting detail - even the menus are handmade and painted in the hippie style. A bowl of soup with croutons will cost a tourist about five euros, and you can eat more or less normally for about fifteen to twenty euros.

You can have a quick bite to eat, depending on the order, from 4 to 12 euros, in a nice cozy pancake “ G&G Corner", Named after the owners - Gregory and Jojiana.

Despite the name, the menu contains a variety of Greek and American fast food: pancakes with a variety of fillings, pizzas, pits, hamburgers, delicious desserts with natural ingredients.

The family restaurant is famous for a huge assortment of fish and vegetable dishes Lions Café, also located near the beach. The menu here is surprisingly varied, and guests of the restaurant can get to know better by ordering the so-called “dish of the day”. The average bill at this restaurant ranges from five to twenty-five euros.

Hotels in Matala

Shivas Village Resort

The four-star Shivas hotel, which combines modern comfort with original classic interiors. Room price - from 50 euros per day.

Address: 70200, Greece, Heraklion Region, Matala, Odigitrias Street (Sivas).

The beach is about five kilometers from here, which can be covered by car or bicycle. A morning hike under the trees to the sea will take about an hour.

The hotel is located in a very picturesque place, among the mountains, and is literally buried in flowers. From the roof of the hotel, where there is a restaurant, opens view of the ancient fortress of Heraklion built by the Venetians.

Guests can use the swimming pool, tennis courts, free Internet access (Wi-Fi), book an excursion right at the hotel, rent a car or bicycle.
You can relax and have fun on hiking and horseback riding, in the diving center.

Armonia Hotel

This is a three star hotel. The daily cost of a double room is from 36 euros, for a triple room - from 60 euros.
Located at: 70400, Greece, Heraklion Region, Matala, Matala.

The main beach is about 800 m from here (10 minutes walk), to the Red Beach - 1.6 km (20 minutes walk).

There is a swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers and umbrellas, and a bar with soft drinks is open from 7 am to 11 pm.

You can rent a car, bicycle or order a shuttle service directly at the hotel, and a tour desk is also available.

There is a special playground for children.

The hotel's specialty is organic products grown on its own plantations.

Hotel Coral Matala

Very cozy two-star family hotel. The hotel is located so well that from it to the center of Matala - 500 m, and to the main beach - 600 m.
Address: 70200, Greece, Heraklion Region, Matala, MainStreet.

The cost of a double room is from 37 euros, for a triple room - from 55 euros per day.

For couples, it is especially convenient here that pets are allowed in the hotel.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Guests are served by a bar and restaurant. A buffet is offered in the morning.

Guests can use the outdoor pool and massage services.
Parking is free to operate.

The rocky caves of the Matala resort in Crete are one of the most ancient abodes of primitive man. Soft pliable stones allowed the hunters of the Neolithic era, who lived in these places 10 thousand years ago, to create a kind of comfortable dwellings in the folds of the mountain slopes. Hidden between low peaks, a primitive economy went straight to the coast of the Libyan Sea. The ancient settlers never seriously starved; they were saved by fishing and thickets of wild fruits. Time rolled forward, but favorable conditions for life remained.

This corner of the planet, which in a fantastic way managed to preserve some of the features of wild primordiality, later became the "capital" of camps of freedom-loving hippies of the 70s from all over the world. Right under the open sky at the foot of the mountain there are now impromptu "home nests" of the followers of "flower children" in Matale in Greece, who completely deny the blessings of civilization and technogenic evolution. The surrounding beauty enchants and bewitches, the mild climate allows you not to think about serious ammunition, the land and the sea provide food, tourists from all over the world come to gaze at this miracle and sometimes even somewhat share the free philosophy of eternal vagabonds.

On the map of Crete

Matala coordinates on Google map: 34.994938, 24.749446

Exotic "hippie house"

The settlement of Matala is located 62 km from the capital of the Mediterranean island, the city of Heraklion, to whose possession it legally belongs. The local Greek community is called Festos. Actually, only 67 local residents are officially registered in the village. The resort has a very rich history. Not only was this corner of the island successfully used by primitive people, the village also left a mark in the chronicle of ancient Greek myths as a legendary place closely associated with the exploits of the ruler of Olympus Zeus. Legends say that the vicinity of Matala knew the majestic Zeus in the form of a bull at the very moment when he traveled with the daughter of the Phoenician king Europa. Zeus and Europe did not stay here for a long time, the leader of the Greek gods had to take the form of an eagle and take the princess to Gortyna.

In a later period, the Matala caves lost their importance as a dwelling, the ancient Romans and the first Christian settlers used underground bins for burials. There is a version that during the heyday of the Minoan civilization, the seaport of the cities of Festa and Gortin was located here - a significant transport hub for the entire region. The trading harbor served as a transshipment base for merchants and has always been a tasty morsel of land for conquerors. At different times, the Romans and Arabs ruled the ball here. The village gained world fame in the 60s and 70s of the 20th century due to the fact that it became a haven for a hippie commune, among which were such famous musical maestros as British singer Kat Stevens, American pop musician and artist Bob Dylan, Canadian rock singer Joni Mitchell. Cult personalities and their many associates zealously opposed America's war with Vietnam, offering to make music and love instead of military battles. Since then, a relentless pilgrimage of tourists from all over the world began to Matalu, who want to live side by side with freedom-loving messengers of the planet's progressive ideas at least for a while.

Several years ago, the Greeks made a film about this resort: "My Hippie Aunt." Until now, on the picturesque beaches of the village, you can meet representatives of the human race with colored baubles on their hands and good-natured smiles on their tanned faces. Some of them hope that the legendary rock band Rolling Stones will take, and will come again to one of the hippie festivals with a new concert. The piquant zest of the resort, which amazes the imagination of the tourist fraternity, has made the village of Matala one of the most visited corners of Crete.

Between the words of Matala and the hippie, even now it is right to put an equal sign. The colorful charm of the village is completed by the turquoise water of the Libyan Sea, cozy miniature beaches, a small but quite solid legion of hotels and apartments and of course fishing taverns that perfectly know how to cook fresh octopus dishes.

Infrastructure of the village: a small resort, but comfortable

We will definitely devote separate chapters to hotels and catering establishments, but for now we would like to present you the offices of firms "useful for life" in Crete:

• the company Villa Kanavoss - rent of country houses on the island, appears on the map under the coordinates: 35.000125, 24.758512. Tourists were laconic in their reviews of the institution: low prices, great offers, a diligent helper;

• car rental MANOLIS RENT A CAR - 34.998892, 24.756813, travelers come to the office of this institution again and only to once again chat with a talkative owner who owns several foreign languages, the car park is solid, the paperwork for the lease is lightning fast, for guests there is always a bonus - incredibly tasty coffee brewed personally by the hostess;

• car and motorcycle rental Kri-Kri cars & bikes rental - 34.996670, 24.755377 slightly disappointed tourists with the technical condition of vehicles, the cost of renting a "average hand" car is 40 euros per day, the staff is friendly and helpful;

• car rental Motor Holidays - 34.993944, 24.753171, judging by the reviews of travelers there is an even less well-known service, like Nick Holidays - Car Rentals - 34.993847, 24.753262, nevertheless, both companies know and love their business, there are no complaints from customers;

• rental of ATVs and scooters Mike’s Bikes Rent a Scooter & ATV - 34.997200, 24.755825 - a favorite place for young tourists, the technical serviceability of vehicles is at a height, the rental price includes the use of helmets;
• KTEL Irakliou bus stop - 34.996915, 24.756030 - an important point on the map of the village, which is a pointer to the place where the intercity buses Heraklion - Matala - Heraklion arrive.

Important! The fact that even in the small resorts of the island, transport rental services are presented in an assortment once again suggests that The best way travel in Crete for travelers - a rented car, motorcycle, ATV or scooter. This option gives a lot additional opportunities exploring the beauties of the Mediterranean at a low price for the service offered.

shops and outlets:

• Distillery Raki liquor store - 34.995631, 24.755407 will help the guests of the village to paint the world in rainbow colors and cheer up;
• shopping center Spinthaki Rodanthi Argaleios - 34.992747, 24.748927 will delight you with a cascade of interesting goods;
• the Prisma souvenir shop - 34.992549, 24.749087 has collected handicrafts on the shelves, cute souvenirs are imbued with the hippie spirit and are suitable as gifts for relatives and friends;
• home goods store Moozart Wood Art Shop - 34.992643, 24.749149 - a great assistant in everyday life not only for local residents, but also for tourists vacationing in apartments with a kitchen, you never know what little thing they may need on vacation;
• Psarakis'Harvest olive oil store - 34.992510, 24.749067 has been rated "excellent" from tourists for service and assortment of goods;
• grocery store Carrefour Express - 34.993499, 24.750563 was noted in the reviews of travelers with a series of positive ratings: fresh products, a wide selection, sellers ready to help in everything;
• local Market clothing store - 34.992668, 24.748929 make you replenish your wardrobe with a bright new thing in the category of beach and leisure goods;
• Euronet ATM ATM - will become a help in the moments when the need arises to replenish cash reserves.

The highlight of the resort's infrastructure is Matala Camping, the coordinates of the object on the Google map: 34.994696, 24.751208. For several decades, hippie festivals from all over the planet have been held on the camping site. The people who were relaxed and free from obligations, in their personal opinion, turned out to be not a “fool”: there are many authentic taverns near the well-maintained land area, and the beach nearby beckons with clear crystal of sea water and a convenient entrance to the sea through small pebbles.

Attractions of the resort

In the city, despite the compact size of the territory, a whole constellation of amazing sights has gathered, which we will now tell you about.

Matala caves

Coordinates of the resort's most stunning landmark: 34.995137, 24.749891

Statistical evidence speaks for themselves about the popularity of the caves among curious tourists, 99.9% of the visitors to the village do not ignore this amazing place. You can come to the caves for exploration from neighboring villages, the place is equipped with a parking lot. Fancy "holes" in the rocks stand out in the stone folds with dark ornate depressions. You won't have to look for the caves for a long time, they immediately catch your eye on Matala beach on the right side. You can study an unusual Cretan landmark closer for 2 euros, a wild imagination will instantly draw pictures from the old life in the caves of freedom-loving hippies to everyone. To visit the stone bins located higher, you will need comfortable shoes, the rocky ledges are slippery in some places. The walls of the caves still keep traces of life-giving energy, travelers often dream of staying in the cave with an overnight stay, but now this is no longer possible. The stone shelters offer a magnificent view of the Libyan Sea, painting colorful pictures of sunsets in the evenings.

The opinions of tourists in the reviews about the caves were divided: some of this place seemed extremely romantic, others just quenched their curiosity and are not going to come back here again. In the evenings, the caves are artificially illuminated with multi-colored lights, the effect is amazing.

Phaistos Palace of the Minoan era

The coordinates of the excavation on the Google map: 35.051692, 24.814819

The ancient palace, or rather the remains of its former grandeur that have survived to this day, are included in the top 5 most important archaeological finds in Crete, along with the closest neighbors, excavations in Agia Triada and Gortyna. The collection of aristocratic residences of the government of the Minoan state was once the epicenter of a noisy life. The palace ensemble at Phaestos was built about 55 km from Heraklion and 11 km from Matala on the Mesara plain in 2000 BC. Scientists suggest that Minos himself and his brother Radamant had a hand in the construction of the palace. Devastating earthquake in 1700 BC practically wiped out the bulk of the structures from the face of the earth. The attention of Italian archaeologists to the history of the island made it possible to begin excavations in the 20th century, now tourists can admire the preserved fragments of buildings built here in 1700-1450. BC.

Ruins of the city of Kommos - the sea harbor of the Minoan state

The coordinates of the remains of the port on the Google map: 35.013198, 24.760746

The ruins of the port of Kommos, to the great regret of curious tourists, are fenced in places. According to the assumption of the great romantic, the Italian archaeologist Tarameli, the local sea harbor was the mysterious place where the fleet of King Menelaus was shipwrecked, returning home after fierce battles in the Trojan War. The ancient Greek poet Homer mentioned this event in his epic works. Serious archaeological research began here in 1967 by Canadian researchers. One thing is known for certain: in the years 1650-1250. BC. Kommos was the key maritime hub of the city of Phaestos. During the excavations, fragments of a port settlement, public buildings, warehouses, a round temple with a courtyard were found. An interesting find for archaeologists was the fragments of a technological line for processing olives into vegetable oil: old presses, separators, tanks for storing the finished product. Most of the items found in the ruins of the port of Kommos are now part of the exposition of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Scientists were amazed by the very form of the ancient settlement - once the city descended in bizarre cascades to the seashore, houses and courtyards were located on improvised terraces.

Parish Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The coordinates of the temple on the Google map: 34.993149, 24.749805

A small, incredibly cozy temple that tunes the soul and heart to peace and tranquility. Stone walls the color of melted cream, brown tiles on the roof, a modest cross and a bell tower, the interior decoration is laconic and strict, a small altar with gilding, colorful icons are prayed and clearly charged with good energy.

Matala Church

Google map coordinates: 34.992243, 24.748984

A miniature church, as if sculpted from a rock. In a tiny courtyard, vases with bright plants are placed; inside the temple, peace reigns, attuning to solitude and thoughts of the eternal. One of the tourists in the review described this place as follows: in the captivity of the aroma of wax candles, you want to stand silently, not in a hurry. The Greeks' devotion to religion is always surprising and awe-inspiring.

The holy gorge of Agiofarango

Google map coordinates: 34.932235, 24.778887

Lovers of miraculous creations of nature and religious rarities should go from Matala to the Agiofarango gorge. From the capital of the nome, Heraklion, head south. The mountain ensemble got its name because its open spaces were once chosen by hermit monks. In the Greek religious world, this gorge is associated with the complete asceticism of the way of life. In ancient times, two rivers flowed along the lowland among the mountains, hurrying to meet the Libyan Sea. On the way, they slowly destroyed rocks, forming intricate caves in them. The surroundings and mountain crevices were occupied by olive trees and rose bushes of oleanders, the picturesque landscape inspired the monks and gave them strength for hard work. One of the wide trails of the gorge gradually leads travelers to the Church of St. Anthony, built right in the rock. The temple has undergone reconstruction several times; it acquired its modern and final appearance at the turn of the 14-15th century. About 100 m from the temple and the underground source is the Humenospilos cave, which served as a meeting place for all hermits for a council. The Agiofarango Gorge will have to be reached by car, the distance is 20 km. 6 km from the outlandish gorge is another important attraction of Crete - the monastery of Odigitria. You can get acquainted with the details in our story.

Our opinion! The sights here are a rich collection of the most valuable relics of the past and bright touches to the turbulent present. The village is clearly one of the places that are not only interesting, but also informative to get to know better.

Coast of the Libyan Sea near the resort

The settlement, which almost without any effort won undoubted success among travelers, decided to "finish off" them with impressions finally and irrevocably. The Libyan coast in the vicinity of the village, and the beaches of the settlement, are ready to compete with the world capitals of beach holidays in terms of comfort, cleanliness and beauty of the surroundings.

Main beach

Matala beach coordinates on Google map: 34.993693, 24.749300

The central beach in Matala is good for everyone: the water temperature is always 2-30C higher than along the entire coast of Crete, the water is so transparent that sometimes it seems that the reservoir can be seen through, the silk sand gently caresses the soles of the feet, and the surrounding landscapes bring crazy with striking beauty. The "Blue Flag of Europe" for its excellent ecology and comfort does not even think to leave the coast, only the winds love to fend for themselves in the bay between the two mountains. The infrastructure of the beach area does not cause complaints even among the most grumpy tourists. Umbrellas, sun loungers, sanitary facilities, beach equipment rentals, a galaxy of cafes and fish restaurants abounding in today's catch from the depths of the Libyan Sea - all this splendor contributes to the daily sold-out on the shore.

Red beach nudist beach

Coordinates of the miracle with reddish sand: 34.986408, 24.749336

The road to the beach along a narrow path in the mountains is not a pleasure for capricious tourists. Velvet dunes of red sand will show their charms to those who have patience. The result is worth it, the village and the exotic beach are only 800 m apart, you can get to the red kingdom only on foot. Ultramarine water sparkles with all facets of transparent topaz, the generous sun for some reason does not seem scorching and evil here. Depth measurements showed that the entrance to the sea can hardly be called shallow, but diving enthusiasts come off here to the fullest. On the way to the Red beach, there is a sign that certain parts of the land are intended for swimming negligee; nudists from all over the island like to gather here. There are practically no umbrellas and sun loungers on the beach, in the only cafe on the shore they make wonderful coffee and prepare a delicious Mojito cocktail. It is better to take a stock of food for a snack with you. Red Beach - begins to play with all the colors of the rainbow in the evening, sunsets are worthy of the brushes of the most brilliant artists. Photos of the enchanting surrounding landscapes often serve as an advertising business card for Greece on travel sites and directory pages for travelers.

Kalamaki Beach

Public beach coordinates on Google map: 35.028058, 24.758485

In the northern direction from Matala, travelers have looked after another pretty beach corner, stretching from Kommos to Kokkinos Pyrgos. The landmark on the spot is the village of Kalamaki. The infrastructure on the beach is not suitable for lovers of the benefits of the highest service, the sun umbrellas and sun loungers all belong to the nearest hotels. This sandy island of the coast is very fond of the wind, which does not want to leave here all day long. Calm at sea is a rare thing; boulders peep everywhere in it. The beach is almost always sparsely crowded, swimming in the local waters can only be done by well-trained people. In the Greek vastness, Kalamaki Beach has been replicated for a good reason. Bus excursions with tourists drop by the shore to see at least from a distance one of the islets in the habitat of the Caretta-Caretta Mediterranean turtles. Caring mothers in shells have chosen this coast to lay their eggs, the ecological services of Crete do not allow travelers to get close to the impromptu protective nests of turtles.

Between Matala beach and Kokkinos village, another stone secret is hiding - the Teosinis rock formation. Having rented a boat from the local residents, you can swim on the water to a massive piece of rock that goes into the sea. A walking promenade along the coast is also possible, but from the waters of the Libyan Sea, the miraculous Kurupi cave, a rocky cache, looks more colorful. Inside the shallow dungeon, monk seals are resting and gaining strength, their peace is only occasionally disturbed by tourists who have dropped in for a visit or by stubborn wild pigeons that have flown into the cave for a halt.

Weather conditions in southern Crete

The weather in Matala whispers: nirvana exists on Earth, come to my domain and see for yourself. The Greeks themselves guess that this village is special, perhaps that is why all the taverns on the shore are built in the shape of a horseshoe, slightly reminiscent of a Roman amphitheater. On the open terraces of taverns for the "Robinsons" who have come to rest, they tirelessly show "a film about the Libyan Sea", not forgetting to add crayfish and wine into their glasses.

Popular taverns

The national cuisine of Greece undoubtedly has common features: fresh, mind you never frozen seafood, a kaleidoscope of tart wines, baked vegetables with fillings, homemade cheeses, green crops. In their reviews of restaurants in Matale, tourists stubbornly repeat the same thing: at the resort, octopuses (in our opinion - octopuses) are deliciously cooked in gentle fillings, and in general they create real culinary miracles with seafood.

Tavern with exotic design Akuna Matata

Google map coordinates: 34.992716, 24.747727

Akuna Matata received one main epithet from visitors: a very funny place. Among 34 catering establishments of the resort, according to the results of a survey with passion, this fish restaurant with a colorful appearance took 5th place of honor. The sign in English temptingly promises tourists fresh fish dishes. The interior of the tavern resembles a large motley hippie bauble: bright colors of paintings and inscriptions, multi-colored furniture. The landscape is completed by the sound of the surf and small steps descending to the sea. Mussels, tuna, king prawns, octopuses - still very recently moved and swam, and now emanates enticing smells on the plate. Portions are suitable for a hero, prices are average, a compliment from the house - a glass of crayfish and a large dish with ripe watermelon sliced.

Scala Restaurant

Google map coordinates: 34.993154, 24.747256

The restaurant is ranked 2 on the podium among catering establishments. The opinions of tourists, as is often the case, were divided into 2 camps. Some travelers were delighted with the cuisine, the size of the portions and the cost of the dishes, while others were not satisfied with the service in the Scala restaurant. The specialty of the institution is national shades and dishes from fish and seafood. In one impression about the restaurant, all the tourists came together: the view from the open terrace to the bay opens amazing. The owners of this tavern have their own mini-bakery and offer visitors a large selection of baked goods made from different types of flour.

Family Tavern Sunset Matala

Coordinates of the "bronze" champion among taverns on the Google map: 34.993225, 24.747099

The Sunset Tavern is stylized as a cozy cave among white rocks. The walls of the establishment are decorated with family photos, because the founder of the business was once the mother of the current owner of the tavern. The kitchen in all respects meets the well-deserved label: you will lick your fingers. The priority among the dishes is occupied by national products prepared using home technologies, as for themselves. Tourists especially remembered: fish soup, fried gilthead, tender pliable lamb, moussaka, Greek eggplants, sweet desserts and aromatic coffee with thick foam. A pleasant surprise after the end of the meal is the small cost of the catering service.

Best hotels

Having read the ode about the holidays on the island in Matale, it's time to think about choosing a hotel for deployment on vacation. There are a lot of hotels, apartments and mini-hotels in the village, it is better to look for the most fashionable 5 * establishments in Rethymno, Heraklion or Chania, these accommodation facilities are rather cozy, nice and simple.

Note! Monitoring of hotel reviews in the village revealed an unusual trend: hotels on the first coastline received less than flattering ratings from travelers. Tourists were embarrassed by the round-the-clock noise in the beach area, the neighborhood with household waste and other annoying troubles. Our resource decided to invite you to get acquainted with more secluded hotels, in which tourists could truly enjoy comfort, silence, beauty and tranquility.

Armonia Hotel 3 *

Google map coordinates: 35.000762, 24.759444

Among the hotels of the resort Armonia Hotel 3 * can be called the average option. Two-storey white cottages with cozy balconies are buried in thickets of tropical bougainvilleas, an area with a garden surrounds a pool with warm azure water. The morning at the hotel begins with a cup of wonderful coffee and a hearty breakfast; it takes no more than 10 minutes to walk to Matala Beach. The hotel is suitable for family vacation, for kids there is a playground.

Dimitris Villa Hotel 3 *

Google map coordinates: 34.995293, 24.756478

Tourists choose Dimitris Resort Hotel from a long list most often for a modest cost of services. All rooms have separate sanitary facilities, wi-fi is fast and playful like the wind, the furniture, although not the newest, is quite solid, there is a swimming pool and parking for rented vehicles on the territory, everything is decorous and noble. The center is 5-6 minutes on foot, to the beach - 10-12 unhurried steps. The hotel has its own tavern, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner upon request. This option is suitable for youth companies traveling around the island all day and returning to the hotel only for the night, the cost of a family room for 3 persons is 6 thousand rubles. per day. The staff are cordial and helpful in any situation.

Hotel Calypso 3 *

Google map coordinates: 34.996416, 24.754306

Hotel Calypso is located in the heart of the resort, the beach can be reached in just 5-7 minutes. The laconic design of the rooms does not disappoint tourists, everything is working properly in the hotel, there is a good pool and a swing for little travelers. In the accommodation facility you can order 3 meals a day, the chef is especially good at national cuisine. The owner of the hotel and the staff are distinguished by excellent hospitality, the territory of the institution is buried in flowers and greenery. The balconies offer pool and garden views, and the bar serves cocktails and refreshing drinks. Almost all the hotels in the village are similar to typical hotels in Greece: they are nice, cozy, and welcome guests.

How to get there

Before starting an exciting journey along the roads of Crete, you will have to fly to the island by plane to the international airports of Crete or Chania. The choice of the route depends entirely on the starting point, the chances of finding a suitable flight to the capital of Crete are greater, and then to whom and how lucky. You can also choose a more exciting option - a sea trip by ferry from Athens to the port of Kastelli or Souda. Changes and hassle will not be enough, the travel time will be impressive, impressions, if possible, will be a real sea.

Matala, a small village of less than a hundred inhabitants, is located in the southern part of the largest Greek periphery, Crete.

It is a real oasis of original culture, with the same magnificent beach and well-developed infrastructure, completely uncharacteristic for a settlement of such a modest size.

Matala: history, location on the map

The village of Matala has long become a kind of hippie talisman, having gained such fame thanks to the caves in which the "children of flowers" found their refuge.

In the Neolithic era, more than 10 thousand years ago, in the porous rock of the rocks surrounding this part of the coast, ancient people carved out many grottoes, which formed a whole settlement.

Later, during early Christianity, burials were carried out in them, and in the early 70s of the 20th century, hippies from all over the world began to gather in the caves. Those who fled from the existing regime also found shelter here, especially young Americans who did not want to participate in hostilities against Vietnam were numerous.

Matala Greece

At the time of the Minoan civilization, the settlement was home to the port of the city of Festa, and then - Gortyna.

The settlement is located on the southern coast of Crete, washed by the Libyan Sea, not far from Pitsidia.

There are several ways to get to Matala, depending on which part of the island to go from:

• By car- the easiest and most convenient option, which allows you not to adjust to the routes and timetables of public transport. The entire Matala route to Heraklion takes about 70 km. and an hour and a half on the road, the distance from Rethymno is 78 kilometers, from Agia Galini - 28 kilometers.
• By bus- departure from the Central Bus Station of Heraklion, the ticket costs 8.5 euros *. On the way, the bus is about 2 hours. If you go to Matala from one of the resorts on the southern coast of the island or from Rethymno, then you need to look for alternative options - there are no regular flights on these routes.
• By taxi- from the capital you can get there for 70-75 euros *, a trip from Agia Galini will cost 40-45 euros *, from Rethymno - about 110 euros *.

On a note! It is easier to rent a car - the price will be commensurate with the services of a taxi, but you can stop wherever you want and see something else interesting along the way.

Climate and weather in Matale

The climate in Matale is very mild due to the combination of sea and mountains surrounding the bay. The beach season lasts almost six months - from late May to mid-October.

The best time to travel is summer and September, but those who do not tolerate extreme heat should take into account that in July and August the air can warm up to extreme temperatures of 35-40 ° C.

In general, the average air temperature in the high season is 29-30 ° C, and the water temperature is + 25-26 ° C. Precipitation, as a rule, is extremely rare. In the low season, the air and water warms up the same - up to a maximum of + 16 ° C, it may rain.

Matala Crete - location on the map

Note! The coldest month of the year is January, the hottest is August.

In fact, you can plan an excursion vacation in Matale all year round, but it is better to avoid December - it has the largest amount of precipitation, and also keep in mind that quite strong winds can blow in Matale even in high season - being on the island affects.

Attractions Matala

Matala is small, but thoroughly saturated with the flavor of the amazing subculture of hippies who once chose it as their habitat, the village itself is worthy of attention: there are a lot of graffiti on the walls of houses, cafe signs are decorated in the same style, even the sidewalks are painted.

The following historical sights are located not far from the village:

• Festos Palace;
• the ancient city of Gortyna, where archaeological excavations are being carried out;
• Agia Triada;
• Lake Zaros.

The Phaistos Palace is located 10 kilometers from Matala - it was here that the famous clay disc was discovered with inscriptions that have not been deciphered to this day. During the Minoan civilization, Phaestos ranked second in importance after the Palace of Knossos. The ticket price is 4 euros *.

Just 3 kilometers from it are the ruins of the royal villa Agia Triada, where you can walk and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature.

On a note! The oldest settlement of the island - Gortyna (entrance - 6 euros *) is located about 30 km from Matala. An amazing monument of ancient architecture - the Basilica of St. Titus, as well as the Gortin Codex, whose code of laws is engraved directly on stone slabs, the remains of the once majestic sanctuary of Isis, the Temple of Apollo and other buildings - have been preserved here.

Lake Zaros attracts travelers with its amazing beauty - its calm greenish waters reflect the majestic trees growing on the slopes of the mountains, and along the entire coast there is a path with benches for rest. From the lake, those who wish can make an ascent to the Church of St. Antonio along the Agiofarango gorge, which is famous as one of the most prayerful places on the island. If you have a car, it is a stone's throw from Matala to Heraklion, where you can see the Palace of Knossos, the aquarium and many other interesting and iconic places.

But, of course, the main attraction of the village is the magnificent beach overlooking the rocky caves.

Additional Information! The caves are open to the public every day from 9 am to 5 pm for 3 euros *, but if you don't want to get inside, you can easily view them from the beach or water.

Matala beaches

Hippie beach in Crete

Matala beach, also known as hippie beach, is one of the most beautiful in Crete. He earned such a high mark for the following parameters:

• length - the beach occupies about 300 meters of the coastline;
• cleanliness - the beach is the owner of the Blue Flag;
• natural shade - many trees and shrubs grow on the shore, so those travelers who do not want to spend money on sun loungers and umbrellas, or simply prefer to sit on the sand, will be able to stay quite comfortably;
• infrastructure - despite the small size of the village, the beach in Matale can offer its guests all the necessary options for a pleasant and comfortable stay.

The beach area is very clean, well-groomed and well equipped for the comfort of tourists. There is a first-aid post, a lifeguard tower, free toilets, showers and changing cabins, as well as the rental of umbrellas, sun loungers and equipment for water sports (renting one pair of sun loungers costs 5 euros * for the whole day, boats - 30 euros * per hour , water skiing - 25 euros * per hour).

Note! In the immediate vicinity of the beach there are a large number of bars, eateries and taverns where you can have a full lunch or whip up something, as well as enjoy delicious cocktails or ice cream.

Matala Beach is one of the few in Crete that boasts magnificent sunsets - on the island the sun sets mainly behind the mountains.

Red Beach nudist beach

Not far from the village there is another picturesque place for a beach holiday - Red Beach, which is firmly included in the list of the most popular nudist beaches in Crete.

To get to it, you need to cross the mountain, at the base of which Matala lies - there is no other road to the beach.

Matala beach

It got its name from Red Beach because of the sand that covers this area of ​​the coast, which has a red tint.

There is practically no infrastructure - there are no toilets or changing cabins, only a small tent where you can buy drinks and rent a sunbed with an umbrella.

Beach coordinates:

• latitude 34.9858903;
• longitude 24.7494938.

Experienced tourists recommend travelers who choose Crete for their vacation to pay attention to the following points:

• despite the mildness of the Mediterranean climate, summer days are usually accompanied by intense heat, so you should not go outside without a headdress, especially at noon;
• this is an island, so at any time of the year there may be winds - it is better to take a light windbreaker with you on vacation;
• if you are planning an active holiday, in addition to slates, put comfortable sports sandals or sneakers in your suitcase;
• you do not need to be afraid to rent a car, because this way you will be able to see much more and plan your route yourself - today many rental agencies in Crete have Russian-speaking employees who will explain and tell everything.

Important! It is better to take a car with full insurance without a deductible, so that in case of trouble on the road, there are no unforeseen expenses.

So, although Matala can impress with its size, it is quite capable of compensating for this with its uniqueness and amazing flavor, and lovers of non-standard recreation will definitely be delighted with her.

* Prices are valid for August 2018.