South Crete (Matala excursion)

Description

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

(Disclaimer: Not all the parts shown on this video are scheduled to be visited on this excursion)

Spend a day in 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, the shelter of the hippies during the 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.

Pick-up's from:
Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos (port), Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion (port), Amoudara (Gazi, Heraklion), Lygaria, Agia Pelagia. [Check the pick-up table list below to find out which is the most convenient pick-up point & time, near your hotel]

Operating Days:
Every Wednesday, Sunday

Languages:
English, French, German, Italian: All days

Tour includes:
✔ Air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or a nearby location
✔ Professional Driver
✔ The assistance of a tour escort throughout the tour
✔ Local taxes are included in the tour package to avoid any additional charges
✔ Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ to ensure your safety and security during the tour

Extra Fees (not included in the price)
Extras payable on the spot (optional):
• Archaeological Site Entrance: 6€
• Entrance to the caves: 4€
• Lunch / Drinks

Tour highlights:
• Visit the Archaeological Site of Gortys
• Enjoy a day in Matala Hippies Beach
• Explore the famous caves by the beach
• Swim in the crystal-clear waters
• Explore the Village and get lunch by the sea

Essentials to have with you:
• Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
• Swimsuit / Beach towel
• Comfortable shoes
• Water

Direction:
South Crete

Duration:
8-9 hours approximately - 150 Km

Overview:
This time we set out for the south of Crete. Our first stop is the ancient city of Gortys, one of the most significant ancient cities of Crete and one of the largest archaeological sites of Greece. You will be fascinated by St. Titus’ Church, the Chamber of the Law Code, the Odeon and the natural beauty of the landscape: the square with the everlasting gnarled olive trees and the evergreen plane tree, where Zeus and Europe had their wedding ceremony.

After a short journey through traditional villages, we reach the famous beach of Matala. This is the place where Zeus, having taken the form of 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 harbour. 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.

Age Definition:
Adults: Over 12 years old  (Full fare)
Children: 4-12 years old  (50% discount)
Infants: 0-3 years old  (Free of charge)

Booking Guiding Lines:
► Your Tour Language: Please check in the description which tour languages are available per day, and make sure your desired language is available on your chosen date
► Your Pick-up Point: Please check the list with all available pick-up points (and hours) from your area, on the table below

PRICING
This excursion includes in its price: Your transfer r/t from your hotel, Escorted Tours. The Adult Fare is applied to passengers of any age above 12 years old. The Child Fare applies to children between 4 and 12 years old (50% discount + extra's if chosen) and the Infant Fare to any child under 4 years old (Free of Charge // No seat reserved).

PICK-UP TABLE
Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, here's a table of hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:

LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to contact us, in order to help you out choose the best pick-up that suits you best!

CANCELLATION
1. Customers who for any reason fail to participate in our excursions are obliged to inform us at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refund will be given. Cancelling at least 24 hours prior to departure, 100% full refund!
2. VisitCrete.com reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour, due to adverse weather conditions or, insufficient passenger number or, force majeure.

IMPORTANT INFO
► We do return money in case of bad weather (when the excursion is cancelled by the organizer tour operator).
► IMPORTANT: You need to be at least 10 minutes prior to your pick-up time at your pick-up point.

All you need to know about Matala Crete in this article:
- Matala's History
- Tips (What will you see, What to do)
- Nearby attractions
- Useful information about Matala
ARTICLE: Why Matala Crete Should be in Your Bucket List!

For further information or bookings please call at telephone No. (+30) 2810341560

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This excursion is eligible for the Summer 2024 Special Offer Discount!

You don't need to do any further action! Discount will be calculated automatically, as you book...