The Hippie Village Matala in Crete

Once a place of longing for dropouts and hippies, today a popular attraction on the island of Crete - discover what the village of Matala in southern Crete has to offer in this article.

Matala in the south of Greece's largest island, Crete, is a mystical place. According to legend, the godfather Zeus appeared here in the form of a bull, with the beautiful princess Europa on his back, rising from the sea. It's no wonder that this place possesses such magical allure. Along with the beaches tried and tested by Zeus, there is also a very special highlight: the caves of Matala. In the 1960s, music legends like Bob Dylan and Cat Stevens lived in these caves. For dropouts and flower children from around the world, they symbolized freedom and uniqueness. Today, you can visit the famous living caves. I will show you what else you can discover in the fishing village of Matala on Crete.

The Hippie Caves | Beaches in Matala

Phaistos & Agio Farago | Matala in Video

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Matala is a small village in the south of the Greek island of Crete, which you can reach after a drive of about 1.5 hours from the island's capital, Heraklion. If you're traveling on the largest of the Greek islands, you can easily include Matala as a stop on your road trip. In addition to the world-famous hippie caves, you'll also find a beautiful beach and typical Greek taverns in Matala, where you can unwind at the end of the day. A visit is absolutely worthwhile! Here you can book tickets for a day trip to South Crete - Matala included.

The hippie caves are probably the most famous attraction in Matala. By the way, they didn't just emerge in the 60s, but much earlier. As early as the Stone Age, caves were carved into the stone here that provided shelter for people. During the Roman occupation, around 146 BC, they were repurposed by the occupiers as burial sites. After lying unused for a long time, they were rediscovered and inhabited by hippies. In the commune that formed, dropouts and hippies sought the pleasures of simple living. Because as you can imagine, the caves offer no great comfort, not to mention electricity and running water. But the simple life was the sought-after contrast to normal living, Matala was perfect for breaking free and escaping all obligations.

The beauty of the beaches on Crete's south coast is well known. It's no surprise that you find beaches in Matala that are bound to make any vacationer's heart skip a beat. When you visit the famous hippie caves, you find yourself already at one of those beaches.

Matala Beach is located in the bay surrounded by the impressive caves, so while sunbathing you have a fantastic view of Matala's landmark. By the way, this beach is said to be the spot where Zeus and Europa came ashore according to legend. Ideally, you should come in the early morning or late afternoon, as most day tourists have already left, and you can enjoy the beach in peace. In the evening, head to the Scala Fish Tavern, which impresses with its spectacular view of the caves. Fresh fish is on the menu here along with other dishes from Greek cuisine.

A somewhat more secluded beach is Kokkini Ammos, south of Matala, known as Red Beach, which can only be reached by foot via a rocky path. Even if you prefer to walk around in flip-flops and sandals on vacation, sturdy footwear is required for the hike to this beach. Once you reach the beach after about 20 to 30 minutes, you can shed any clothing since Red Beach is a nudist beach. A tan without tan lines is guaranteed.

That Crete also has a lot to offer culturally is clear in many places on the island. North of Matala, you'll find the ruins of the Minoan city of Phaistos. The Minoan culture is considered the first high culture of Europe, and its most famous remnant is the Palace of Knossos, which can also be admired on Crete. During excavations in Phaistos, artifacts discovered were found to be over 5,000 years old. Even today, the ruins of the palace, which are as significant as those of Knossos, are well preserved and can be visited for a small entrance fee. After a 40-minute drive from Matala, you can also reach the bay of Agio Farago, which is still considered a small insider tip in Crete and a paradise for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Besides a small monastery, you will also find here sandstone caves that were once inhabited by people. The beauty of the secluded bay is its crystal-clear water. It's no wonder that people were drawn here who sought peace and seclusion.

During my last trip to Crete, I visited the hippie village of Matala as well as other highlights on Crete and brought you a video. Here you will get great tips and inspiration for your vacation on the largest island in Greece:

Video: Vacation Guru

I can only repeat myself: Matala is simply a charming village that everyone should visit at least once. So what are you waiting for? Get some inspiration from my Crete travel guide and numerous articles, pick a suitable offer, or find your perfect trip in my booking engine starting from under $300!

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