Matala - all you need to know.
Situated on the south coast of Crete just 70 km from Heraklion, Matala is the perfect location for relaxation or adventure.
Originally a large fishing village it is placed in the heart of a natural harbour and offers a sandy and pebble beach which is overlooked by the unspoilt infamous caves of the Matala 1960's and 1970's hippies cult era. Indeed, the American folk singer Joni Mitchell once stayed there and the atmosphere (together with a love story) was the inspiration for a song on her renowned album "Blue".
If that doesn't convince you to pay a visit, imagine where in mythology, Zeus, disguised in the form of a bull, carried the princess Europa over the waters to arrive at the beach in Matala.
Nestling amongst these caves, which originate from Roman times, is an ancient Church of the Virgin Mary. Admission to the caves is free, but staying overnight is not allowed. Fortunately, there are a multitude of small hotels, guest rooms, B & B's if you intend to stay overnight. For a more rustic stay, local camping sites are available where the necessary equipment can be rented.
Matala Beach Festival
Let's not forget the famous Matala Beach festival, this year taking place from Friday 21st June through to it's finale on Sunday evening 23rd June. A golden opportunity to immerse yourself into the rhythm and enjoy the "Matala experience" to the full.
Now of course, the beach at Matala offers a multitude of sport activities if you are looking for action or just a lazy day sunbathing. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available and public toilets are not far away. A life guard is in attendance and the beach can boast being a recipient of a Blue Flag. Inland the beach is shadowed by Tamarisk trees which provide natural shade from the heat of the sun.
Red Sand Beach and Ammos Beach
If the famous Matala beach is not enough for you, don't worry. A short distance away is the equally prestigious Red Sand Beach. This is just 800 m away via a footpath from the main Matala beach. Be warned though, clothing is optional!! (it's a nudist beach).
Additionally, slightly north of Matala is the less developed Kommos Beach. About 5 minutes by car/motorbike you can be relaxing on this seemingly endless stretch of sand. This area due to its proximity to archaealogical sites is protected and hence there is a lack of the usual cafeterias and beach amenities. This beach is also well-known as being one of the few where the Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) approach inland to lay their eggs (May to Sept). Caution is therefore required on the sand dunes, although designated areas are cordoned off to prevent disturbance. These sand dunes are also home to white lilly flowers which by their presence is said to mark the end of summer. Moving up to the north end of the beach be prepared again for it's nudists only!! Last but not least, looking out to the sea you will notice a huge rock jutting out above the sea level. This is known by the locals as Volkas rock and according to Greek mythology was thrown by the cyclops Polyphemus at Odysseus to prevent his escape.
Aghia Triada and Phaistos
Having made the journey down to Matala it is worth noting that nearby are the Archaeological Sites of Aghia Triada and the world renowned Phaistos site.
Two archaeological monuments dating back to 1600 BC, which once stood as jewels of Crete. One was the Summer Royal Villa, while the Palace of Phaistos was among the most important and wealthiest centers of the Minoan civilization. It was one of the most significant cities founded in Crete by King Minos, and as Homer recounts, it was the “well-built city” that took part in the Trojan War under the leadership of Idomeneus.
The city of Phaistos extends over a vast area surrounding the Royal Villa in the fertile Mesara Valley, which is framed by imposing mountains and lies upon a beautiful hill. It is a site of great historical importance not only for its palaces and the Minoan complex, but also because of the famous Phaistos Disc, discovered in one of the palace chambers. These two sites are separated by only 3km and are set in surroundings of Pine Trees.
How to get to Matala
This destination can be easily reached by car or motorbike and is connected by a recently improved road system.
Taking a leisurely drive south in the direction of Mires you will need roughly 40 minutes from Heraklion.