Matala, a picturesque beach town on the southern coast of Crete, has a rich history and a vibrant counterculture legacy. Travelers can now experience the best of both worlds – the ancient archaeological site of Gortyn and the laid-back charm of Matala’s "Hippie Beach" – all in a single day trip. With crystal-clear waters, intriguing cave dwellings, and knowledgeable guides to bring the past to life, this excursion promises an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and cultural discovery. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a refreshing escape, this day trip offers a unique opportunity to…
Key Points
- Explore the rich history of Matala and Gortyn dating back to 3000 BC, including Minoan and Roman eras.
- Enjoy the crystal clear waters and 300-meter sandy beach at Matala Hippie Beach.
- Discover the historical caves used by the 1960s counterculture and stroll through the charming village of Matala.
- Benefit from complimentary pickup, air-conditioned transportation, and knowledgeable multilingual guides.
- Flexible booking and cancellation policies, including ‘reserve now, pay later’ options and group discounts.
Overview of the Trip
This day trip offers travelers the opportunity to explore the renowned Matala Hippie Beach and the ancient archaeological site of Gortyn, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
Priced at $34.85 per person, this 9-hour excursion allows participants to discover the rich history of the region, dating back to 3000 BC.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, this day trip is both flexible and accessible.
Visitors can expect a personalized experience, as the tour is led by multilingual guides who provide historical context and answer questions.
Whether you’re looking to swim in crystal clear waters, explore ancient caves, or learn about the charming village of Matala, this day trip has a lot to offer.
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Highlights of the Itinerary
Travelers on this day trip will first visit the archaeological site of Gortys, an ancient city inhabited since 3000 BC and significant during the Minoan and Roman eras. Afterwards, they’ll explore the famous Matala Hippie Beach, with its 300-meter sandy shore and captivating caves that were once used by 1960s counterculture nomads. While there, they can enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters, wandering through the historical village, and indulging in refreshments at the beachside taverns.
| Activities | Experience |
|---|---|
| Exploring Gortys’ ancient ruins | Taking in rich historical legacy |
| Swimming at Matala Hippie Beach | Discovering idyllic natural beauty |
| Visiting Matala’s famous caves | Connecting with the free-spirited past |
| Strolling through the village | Appreciating local culture and charm |
Transportation and Pickup Details
The tour includes complimentary pickup from various locations across Crete, such as Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Heraklion, and Amoudara.
You’ll receive an email confirmation within 24 hours of booking, which will specify your exact pickup point and time.
The transfer to and from the sites is provided in air-conditioned buses, ensuring a comfortable journey.
Whether you’re staying in Sisi, Malia, or any of the other designated pickup locations, the tour makes it easy to get to the Matala Hippie Beach and Gortyn Archaeologic Site without the hassle of arranging your own transportation.
Tour Guide and Group Experience
Knowledgeable and multilingual guides accompany the tour, providing historical context and answering questions to enhance the personalized experience, even with small group sizes. The tour guides are available in English, French, and German, ensuring that participants from diverse backgrounds can fully engage with the experience.
| Tour Guide Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Language Proficiency | English, French, German |
| Historical Context | Provide insights into the significant Minoan and Roman past of the sites |
| Personalized Experience | Tailored experience catered to small group sizes |
| Q&A Support | Answer questions to enhance understanding throughout the excursion |
The professional and passionate guides bring the ancient sites to life, creating an immersive and enriching adventure for all participants.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information to Know
Though the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, it caters to a range of other needs and preferences. Participants should bring essential items like sunglasses, sun hats, swimwear, cameras, and sun protection to enhance their enjoyment of the day’s activities. While personal expenses, food, and drinks aren’t included, insurance coverage is provided for added peace of mind.
The tour offers a well-rounded experience:
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Explore the historical significance of the Gortys archaeological site, dating back to 3000 BC.
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Discover the renowned Matala Hippie Beach and its caves, popular with the counterculture movement in the 1960s.
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Enjoy swimming in the crystal clear waters and walking around the picturesque village.
Pricing and Booking Options
With pricing starting at $34.85 per person and a flexible booking policy, this day trip offers excellent value for money. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, while free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensures a full refund if plans change.
| Option | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Day Trip | $34.85+ | Transportation, Entrance Fees, Live Guide |
| Private Tour | $200+ | Private Vehicle, Customized Itinerary, Personal Guide |
| Family Package | $99+ (2 adults, 2 children) | Family-Friendly Activities, Discounted Rates |
| Group Discount | -10% | For Groups of 6 or More |
The convenient booking options and competitive pricing make this an appealing choice for exploring Matala Beach and Gortyn Archaeological Site.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
The flexible cancellation policy allows travelers to receive a full refund if they cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance. This provides peace of mind for those who may need to change their plans unexpectedly.
The tour operator offers a convenient ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, enabling customers to secure their spot without an immediate financial commitment.
Additionally:
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Cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour aren’t eligible for a refund, ensuring the operator can adequately prepare for the scheduled activities.
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Tour insurance is included, offering protection in case of unexpected events or emergencies during the trip.
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The flexible policies and refund options make this day trip an accessible and risk-free experience for a wide range of travelers.
What to Bring on the Tour
To make the most of the day trip to Matala and Gortyn, travelers should pack a few essential items.
Sunglasses, a sun hat, and swimwear are must-haves to enjoy the beaches and explore the caves comfortably.
Plus, bringing a camera will allow capturing memorable moments from the historical sites and stunning Mediterranean views.
Sunscreen is crucial to protect against the strong Mediterranean sun.
Some cash is recommended for purchasing drinks or snacks at the beachside taverns.
Finally, packing a beach towel and light, comfortable clothing can ensure a relaxed and enjoyable experience throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Participate in This Tour?
Yes, children can participate in this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, and families are welcome. However, the tour may not be ideal for young children due to the amount of walking involved.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues. The website states that it’s "Not suitable for wheelchair users", indicating it may involve challenging terrain or lack accessibility features necessary for those with limited mobility.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Activity?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, though not recommended for those with limited mobility as it involves walking and exploring historic sites. Families are welcome to join the trip.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Needs?
The tour can be customized to individual needs, though group size may be limited. Guests should contact the tour provider to discuss any specific requirements or accommodations they need for the day trip.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour’s group size is personalized, catering to small groups for a more intimate experience. The website states the tour provides a "personalized experience even with small group sizes," though the maximum group size is not explicitly stated.
Recap
The day trip to Matala Hippie Beach and the Gortyn archaeological site offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Visitors can explore ancient ruins, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the charming village atmosphere, all while enjoying the guidance of knowledgeable experts.
This captivating excursion is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure.
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