Description
Matala excursion: Sandstone Cliffs, Libyan Sea & Odigitria Monastery
(The Rugged South Without the Rough Drive)
Leave the exhausting mountain driving to our local experts and travel comfortably to the southern coast. Enjoy a generous 4.5 hours of swimming and exploring the 1960's cliff dwellings at Matala bay. On your way back, find quiet shade and local history at the Odigitria Monastery's folklore museum. Entrance to the monastery museum is free; cave tickets and lunch are payable on the spot.
(Disclaimer: Not all the parts shown in this video are scheduled to be visited on this excursion)
Quick Experience Highlights
▶ Zero Mountain Driving: Cross the island safely while our professional drivers navigate the steep, 1.5-hour rural route.
▶ Generous Beach Time: Enjoy 4.5 hours to swim in the Libyan Sea and explore the famous 1960s cliff dwellings.
▶ Monastic Heritage: Walk through the shaded Odigitria Monastery folklore museum and see local herbal crafts.
▶ Professional Support: Travel with our experienced Tour Leader who ensures punctual logistics.
▶ Mobile Tickets Accepted: No printing required; just show your ticket on your phone!
Why Choose Matala excursion? (The Stress-Free Way)
-
• Zero Driving Stress: The road to the south coast is famously winding and exhausting. Leave the driving across the Messara plain to our expert local team.
-
• Strategic Early Arrival: Matala beach fills up quickly by midday. We time our departure to arrive early, giving you a valuable head start to secure highly coveted sunbeds and umbrellas before the peak crowds hit.
- • The Perfect Balance: We give you a massive 4.5 hours of pure swimming and relaxation at the bay, ensuring you don't feel rushed like on standard tours.
- • Cultural Contrast: Instead of just a beach day, the serene stop at Odigitria Monastery offers a beautiful, shaded cultural contrast to the vibrant coast.
-
• Local Escorts: Feel safe and guided by locals who handle all the logistics and timings.
The Experience: The Rugged South Without the Rough Drive
Discover the Bohemian Spirit. The route from the northern resorts to the Libyan Sea involves steep inclines and winding rural roads. By joining our organized trip, you trade the anxiety of the steering wheel for air-conditioned comfort and sweeping views of the Messara Plain. Operating in Crete Since 1997, we know exactly how to time this journey to maximize your beach hours.
Upon arriving at the crescent bay, you have 4.5 unhurried hours. Swim in the clear waters, photograph the imposing sandstone cliffs, or walk up to the ancient Roman tombs that hosted the 1960s bohemian counterculture. When the sun peaks, retreat to a seaside tavern. Instead of a rushed return, we pause at the serene Odigitria Monastery, nestled in the Asterousia Mountains, adding a layer of quiet heritage to your coastal retreat.
Your Day at a Glance:
1. The Southern Crossing (Morning): After a comfortable pick-up near your hotel, we cross the island's mountainous spine. Enjoy the scenery of the Messara plain without the stress of navigating rural roads.
2. Matala Bay (Midday): Welcome to hippie heaven. You have 4.5 hours to swim, explore the famous cave dwellings (5€ entry), wander the colorful village, and enjoy lunch at a waterfront tavern.
3. Odigitria Monastery (Afternoon): On the way back, we stop at this historic monastery. Walk through the shaded courtyards of the folklore museum and view traditional herbal creams crafted by monks.
Tour Logistic for your Matala Excursion
• Operating Days: Every Wednesday and Sunday.
• Languages: English, French, German, Italian: All operating days.
• Pick-ups from: Milatos, Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos (port), Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion, Amoudara (Gazi, Heraklion), Lygaria, Agia Pelagia, and Fodele.
• Direction: South Crete.
• Duration: 8-9 hours approximately - 150 Km.
Essential Trip Details
What is Included
✔ Air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off services.
✔ Professional Driver and tour escort assistance throughout the day.
✔ Local taxes and liability insurance coverage (ALLIANZ).
What is NOT Included
✕ Extras payable on the spot: Cave entrance fee (5€), Lunch & Drinks (available at local tavernas at reasonable prices).
Age Definition
• Adults: Over 12 years old (Full fare).
• Children (4-12 years old): 50% discount.
• Infants (0-3 years old): Free of charge | No seat reserved (seated on parents' lap)
Essentials to have with you: Backpack, Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen, Swimsuit / Beach towel, Comfortable shoes, Water.
Booking & Cancellation Policy
Important Booking Guidelines
• Language Availability: Please ensure your preferred language is available on your selected date.
• Pick-up Protocol: Consult the pick-up table below for your exact location. Punctuality is vital: Please be at your pick-up point 10 minutes early. The bus follows a strict schedule and cannot wait for late arrivals.
• Infant Safety: Infants (0-3) travel free but must sit on a parent's lap as no separate seat is reserved.
Cancellation & Refund Policy
• Free Cancellation: Get a 100% full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour departure (defined as the time of the first pick-up of the day).
• Late Cancellations & No-Shows: No refund will be issued for cancellations made within 24 hours of departure or if you fail to show up at the pick-up point on time.
• Operator Adjustments: We reserve the right to reschedule or cancel the tour due to adverse weather, force majeure, or insufficient participation. In case of cancellation by us, you receive a full refund.
For more details, please review our full Terms & Conditions page.
Plan Your Visit: Discover More About This Trip
Choosing a Matala tour from Heraklion or a Matala tour from Hersonissos is the absolute best way to experience the vibrant south without renting a car. Our itinerary focuses on maximizing your relaxation time at the beach while ensuring you get a taste of authentic local culture.
Whether you are staying in Malia or as far as Agia Pelagia, our organized Matala excursion provides reliable, air-conditioned transport right to the Libyan Sea. Traveling with a professional operator allows you to just sit back, enjoy the spectacular landscapes of the Messara valley, and prepare for a perfect day out.
Pick-up Locations for
Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, click the plus sign (+) to see all available hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:
LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to contact us or use our Live Chat service in order to help you choose the best pick-up that suits you best!
Frequently Asked Questions (Matala & Monastery)
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
Let’s make your visit unforgettable!
If you have questions about pick-ups or the itinerary, call us at (+30) 2810 341560 or use our Live Chat service. We are local experts, and we LOVE helping you discover the best of Crete!
An Unforgettable Experience Awaits
Special Offer: Book now and save up to 20%!
Explore more and enjoy unbeatable discounts! Click to learn more.
