Take and airconditioned bus trip through South Crete on this day trip with pickup from Heraklion. Travel back in time as you explore Cretan history at the Gortys archeological site and have plenty of free time to soak up the vibes of at the colorful, seaside town of Matala. Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation in selected locations on Crete in the morning. Drive for 1.5 hours to the Gortys archeological site. Purchase a ticket to the site to uncover sights from 5000 years of Cretan history. Take a short drive to Matala and spend 4.5 hours of free time where you can go swimming, sunbathe at the beach, purchase a ticket to the local caves or have lunch at a charming seaside café. Return to your accommodation in Crete at the end of your free time in Matala.

After a short drive through the Messara plain you reach Matala. Known for the colony of hippies in the Sixties, where they lived in large holes formed on the mountain. The rocks are holes with a Roman burial. In Matala you will have time for a refreshing dip in the water, eat something or just enjoy a drink on the beach. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form a bull, swam ashore with Europa on his back before dragging her off to Gortys. Both, the Minoans and the Romans used the place as their harbor. Nevertheless, for most people, Matala means only one thing: hippies. Back in the late 1960s - 1970s, this little town was a colony of the “flower children”, who lived in the caves that used to be former Roman tombs

We reach the famous beach of Matala. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form a bull, swam ashore with Europa on his back before dragging her off to Gortys. Both the Minoans and the Romans used the place as their harbor. Nevertheless, for most people, Matala means only one thing: hippies. Back in the late 1960s - 1970s, this little town was a colony of the “flower children”, who lived in the caves that used to be former Roman tombs. Here we will enjoy the crystal waters, the warm sun and lunch by the sea, while later we can explore the prehistoric caves, carved on the steep rocks of the area. 11:00 Arrival at Matala – free time 15:00 Departure from Matala 16:15 Arrival in Heraklion Route: 90 km Duration: app. 8 hours Extras: Entrance Caves Matala (optional): 2,00 € Pick up Malia: 08:30 Stalis: 08:35 Hersonisos: 08:45 Anissaras: 08:55 Analipsi: 09:10 Gouves: 09:20 Gournes: 09:30 Kokkini Hani: 09:30 Karteros: 09:35 Heraklion: 09:45 Ammoudara: 09:55

Journey into the wild and untamed side of Crete by Land Rover. Visit quiet, spiritual Agiofarago with its wild beauty, then experience the contrast of noisy Matala with its hippie style. After being picked up from your hotel, drive south through the plain of Messara, to Agiofarago: the gorge of the Saints. Enjoy a drink in the traditional village of Siva, then stop at the 14th century Odigitria Monastery. From there the rugged dirt tracks will lead you to Agiofarago. Stretch your legs along a 30 minute path crossing the gorge, scattered with oleander and olive trees. Discover a beautiful beach stretching to the Libyan Sea, where you can swim and snorkel. Continue to Matala, a small but crowded village, with a long sandy beach and crystal clear deep waters. Explore carved Roman tombs, have a swim at the beach, and eat lunch in a traditional local tavern.

Hop down to the heart of Central Crete, the beloved land of our ancestors, and let the wonders of the Minoan world collide on this luxurious passage of time. From the comfort of a premium chauffeured vehicle & escorted by our top local insider revel in the endless luxuries of the ancient Messara plain where wine-red fertile soils treasure lavish vineyards & the oldest olive groves stretch perennially toward the horizon. Visit a family award-winning winery set on the peak of allure panoramas & let our passionate winemakers immerse you into their intoxicating world. Luxuriate in ages unearthing the Bronze Age palaces of Phaistos & Gortyna along with storied villages & monasteries. In the afternoon, tuck in the bohemian vibe of Matala that captivated Bob Dylan & Janis Joplin. Bask in the turquoise waters of the Libyan Sea & unwind in the charming village irresistible for its freshly caught grilled fish & finest ouzo. To us, travel means putting fire in your soul with the best stories.

Since 2011, the Matala Beach Festival takes place in Crete (except for the “Corona years” 2020-2022). The Matala Beach Festival takes place right on the beach – but eventually runs through the whole place. There are bands from the Greek and international music scene. The entrance to the area is free. The Matala Beach Festival includes events for children and adults. Worth seeing is the annual “Street Painting” – when the streets in the village become a huge painting (on the Sunday before the festival). The concerts on the beach and the beach parties are of course the highlight and suitable for all audiences. The story since 2011 In June 2011 South Crete Community in Greece threw a festival on the beach to celebrate the launch of the ‘Myth of Matala’ book featuring photos of the hippie cave residents during the 60s & 70s. It was a hippie reunion. 35,000 people heard about it and flocked to Matala beach. In June 2012 over 58,000 people visited the festival weekend and the word is quickly spreading. It was a huge success as free events which brought together music and arts fans from all generations together on the beach beneath the caves to celebrate peace, love and happiness. Matala Beach Festival 2013 introduced to 70.000 people the meaning of LIFE! Matala Beach Festival is today an amazing international event with more than 100.000 fans!!! Together it makes the Difference! Events & Details 2 Concert stages (Main Stage / Cave – Square Stage ) More than 30 concerts Matala Street Painting Projekt The Craftsman Projekt Bar fascilities Familiy areas Camping project All live acts as following: Friday 23 June 2023 • Θανάσης Παπακωνσταντίνου very famous Rapper • Abba Revival (The Tribute to Abba) • Ac/Dc Tribute Gang • Loopia Band Saturday 24 June 2023 • Locomondo • Eisvoleas • 48 hours • The Skelters (The Beatleas Tribute) Sunday 25 June 2023 • Toni Sfinos • Rootsriders (Bob Marley Tribute) • The Motiff • Alone together

Hop down to the heart of Central Crete, the beloved land of our ancestors, and let the wonders of the Minoan world collide on this luxurious passage of time. From the comfort of a premium chauffeured vehicle & escorted by our top local insider revel in the endless luxuries of the ancient Messara plain where wine-red fertile soils treasure lavish vineyards & the oldest olive groves stretch perennially toward the horizon. Visit a family award-winning winery set on the peak of allure panoramas & let our passionate winemakers immerse you into their intoxicating world. Luxuriate in ages unearthing the Bronze Age palaces of Phaistos & Gortyna along with storied villages & monasteries.

Escape to paradise with our exclusive trip to Matala Beach and CretAquarium! Experience the sheer beauty of Matala Beach, where sun-drenched golden sands meet the sparkling azure waters of the Mediterranean. Take a dip in the rejuvenating sea, bask in the warm sunshine, or simply unwind amidst the breathtaking coastal scenery. But the adventure doesn't end there! Dive into the captivating world of marine life at CretAquarium, where you'll be mesmerized by a kaleidoscope of colorful fish, majestic sea turtles, and graceful stingrays. Witness the wonders of the ocean up close as you stroll through immersive exhibits, marvel at the vibrant coral reefs, and learn about the conservation efforts dedicated to preserving our aquatic ecosystems. Whether you're seeking relaxation or seeking to quench your curiosity, this trip offers the perfect blend of tranquility and exploration. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, indulge in thrilling underwater encounters, and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Don't miss this opportunity to discover the hidden treasures of Matala Beach and the awe-inspiring marine world of CretAquarium. Book your trip now and embark on an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the wonders of our planet's oceans.

Discover the remnants of centuries-old Christian monuments in central Crete. Take a private day trip from Agios Nikolaos or Elounda to dive into the rich religious history of the island. Follow the path walked by Apostle Paul thousands of years ago and admire imposing monasteries. Get picked up from your Agios Nikolaos/Elounda hotel or villa and take a journey to central Crete from north to south. Explore the land where Apostle Paul found fertile soils with lavish vineyards and olive groves stretching toward the horizon. Allow your guide to take you on a journey through history. Explore the village of Agios Myron and its holy cave, as well as the Pailani and Odigitria Monasteries. Meander through the Minoan wonders of the vast Messara Plain to take in magnificent views of Phaistos Palace. Finally, visit the village of Matala to unwind at the typical fish tavernas on the waterfront.

The Palace of Phaistos is the second largest archaeological site in Crete, right behind the Minoan Palace of Knossos. A private transfer from Chania to Phaistos gives you the opportunity to see the South part of Crete, as well as the Beaches and the parts of our island’s mainland south. Our private transfer to Festos Palace starts from Chania where our experienced driver picks you up for free from your designated area: Α refreshing breakfast stop is being done, while we pass through some villages of mainland Chania that are worth seeing. Various sightseeing stops will be carried out on this private transfer to Phaistos Palace, as we approach the famous beach shore villages of Agia Galini and the region of Messara. Upon arriving at the Archaeological Site of Faistos, you have 1:30 to two Hours of free time to roam around the ancient Minoan palace of Festos and visit the neighbouring museum/shop of the site. After the tour of the archaeological site, this private full-day tour to Phaistos from Chania takes you to the romantic hippie beach shore of Matala where we will eat our lunch, have an opportunity for a rewarding swim, or stroll the picturesque alleys of the famous village, before embarking our spacious and modern 7 seater car to return to Chania, where we started our private transfer early in the morning.