Matala Beach – Ancient Phaistos-Faistos & Gortyn – South Crete

Matala Beach in southern Crete offers a unique blend of natural splendor and historical intrigue. Nestled amidst majestic cliffs, this idyllic destination invites visitors to explore its iconic caves, once a haven for 1960s counterculture. Beyond the beach, the ancient ruins of Phaistos and Gortyn provide a captivating glimpse into Crete’s storied past, with remnants of Minoan and Roman civilizations. From the enigmatic Phaistos Disc to the well-preserved Roman structures, this region chronicles a rich tapestry of human history that continues to captivate and inspire. Delving into the details of this extraordinary location reveals a world of discovery just waiting to be uncovered.

Key Points

• The tour explores the ancient ruins of Phaistos and Gortyn, providing a glimpse into Crete’s captivating historical legacy.
• Matala Beach, located on the southern coast of Crete, blends history and natural beauty with its iconic Matala Caves.
• The tour includes a scenic swimming stop at Kolkofita Bay and a boat trip with a varied lunch menu.
• The tour is suitable for travelers with strollers and children, with accessibility features like infant seats available.
• Traveler reviews highlight the scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and overall satisfaction with the tour organization and itinerary.

Tour Overview

The Matala Beach – Ancient Phaistos-Faistos & Gortyn tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of Crete’s captivating history and natural beauty.

Rated 4.5/5 by 26 reviewers, this full-day excursion takes adventurers along the island’s southern coast to uncover ancient ruins and enjoy the serene beaches.

Priced from €670 per group, the tour includes round-trip transportation, guided commentary, and entrance fees to key sites like the Matala caves.

While not wheelchair accessible, the experience is suitable for travelers with strollers and children.

Pickup and confirmation details are provided in advance, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s discoveries.

Whether seeking historical insights or simply relaxing in picturesque settings, this tour delivers an enriching Cretan experience.

Inclusions and Pricing

The Matala Beach – Ancient Phaistos-Faistos & Gortyn tour includes several key features:

• Round-trip transportation in air-conditioned buses

• Guided commentary in selected languages

• Entrance fees to key sites like the Matala caves, which cost €4 for adults

• Lunch on the boat, with the specific menu varying

The tour is priced from €670.00 per group (up to 2 people) and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

With these inclusions and the reasonable pricing, the Matala Beach tour provides a comprehensive way to explore the ancient sites and natural beauty of southern Crete.

Pickup and Confirmation

Convenient pickup arrangements and clear confirmation details facilitate a seamless experience for travelers booking the Matala Beach – Ancient Phaistos-Faistos & Gortyn tour. Designated bus stops near hotels in the Heraklion, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos regions provide accessible starting points, while tour details are promptly confirmed via email upon booking.

To ensure a smooth start, the tour operator requires pickup details to be provided 24 hours in advance. The tour is accessible to most, with strollers permitted and infant seats available, though it is not wheelchair-accessible. With these thoughtful logistics, travelers can focus on enjoying the highlights of this comprehensive Cretan excursion.

Pickup Points	Confirmation	Accessibility
Heraklion	Received at booking	Not wheelchair accessible
Rethymno	Details provided via email	Stroller accessible
Agios Nikolaos	Guaranteed service with 24-hr notice	Infant seats available

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at 9:00 AM, the tour highlights a visit to Spinalonga Island, where travelers can explore the ruins and pay an entrance fee of €8 for adults.

After the island visit, the group enjoys a swimming stop in the scenic Kolkofita Bay, followed by a boat trip with a varied lunch menu.

Capping off the day, the tour provides free time for independent exploration in Agios Nikolaos.

Visitors can look forward to scenic views, interesting historical sites, and enjoyable meals throughout the day’s activities.

The well-organized itinerary ensures sufficient time for exploration and a chance to experience the highlights of South Crete.

Traveler Reviews

Travelers have consistently praised the scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and enjoyable swimming and hiking opportunities provided by the tour. According to reviews, the well-organized trips allow sufficient time for exploration of the historical sites.

Many visitors have expressed overall satisfaction with the tour organization, noting the beautiful scenery and interesting information shared by the guides. Some travelers suggest considering independent visits for more flexibility, while others recommend bringing personal flotation devices for children during the swimming stop.

Tour Destination: Matala Beach

Matala Beach, located on the southern coast of Crete, is the primary destination of this comprehensive tour, offering visitors a unique blend of ancient history and picturesque natural beauty. Visitors can explore the iconic Matala Caves, once inhabited by hippies in the 1960s, and marvel at the stunning cliffs that frame the crystal-clear waters. The tour also provides the opportunity to visit the ancient ruins of Phaistos and Gortyn, allowing travelers to explore Crete’s rich cultural heritage. With its captivating landscapes, historical significance, and opportunity for relaxation, Matala Beach is a must-visit destination on any Cretan adventure.

Feature	Description
Location	Southern coast of Crete
Highlights	Matala Caves, Phaistos ruins, Gortyn ruins
Natural Beauty	Stunning cliffs, crystal-clear waters
Historical Significance	Ancient inhabitants, rich cultural heritage
Activities	Exploration, relaxation

Historical Sites: Phaistos and Gortyn

The tour also includes visits to the ancient ruins of Phaistos and Gortyn, allowing visitors to enjoy Crete’s rich historical legacy.

Phaistos, an important Minoan palatial center, boasts impressive remnants of its architectural structures, including the famous Phaistos Disc, a clay tablet with mysterious inscriptions.

Gortyn, on the other hand, was a prominent city-state in ancient Greece, known for its well-preserved Roman-era ruins and the famous ‘Law Code of Gortyn,’ one of the earliest known written legal codes.

These archaeological sites offer a unique glimpse into the island’s captivating past, complementing the natural beauty of Matala Beach and providing a comprehensive cultural experience for visitors.

Accessibility and Important Notes

While the tour offers a chance to explore Crete’s historical wonders, it’s important to be aware of the accessibility considerations for visitors.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and infant seats are available. Guests should provide their pickup details 24 hours in advance to ensure guaranteed service.

The tour’s accessibility features include:

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Infant seats available

Providing the pickup details in advance is crucial to ensure a smooth start to the Matala Beach tour and allow the organizers to coordinate the transportation efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required for the Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum number of participants required. It is available for as few as 2 people per group, providing a private experience for small parties.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can request modifications to the itinerary, transportation, or other aspects of the experience. The tour operator will work to accommodate reasonable requests within the tour’s constraints.

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The recommended attire for the tour includes comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, and sun protection like hats and sunscreen. Bringing a swimsuit and towel is also advised for the swimming stop during the tour.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges Not Covered by the Tour?

The tour price covers transportation, guided tour, and entrance fees to sites like Matala caves. However, visitors may need to pay individual fees for other museums or attractions not included in the tour package.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This allows travelers flexibility in their plans and provides a hassle-free booking process for those with last-minute changes.

Recap

Matala Beach in southern Crete offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Visitors can explore the iconic Matala Caves, ancient ruins of Phaistos and Gortyn, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters framed by majestic cliffs.

This comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience, allowing travelers to discover Crete’s captivating past and appreciate its remarkable coastal landscape.