Day trip to Matala Hippie Beach & Gortyn Archaeological Site

Taking a trip to Crete means embracing a mix of history, natural beauty, and a touch of bohemian spirit. This particular day tour, offered by SEALAND TRAVEL, promises an engaging 9-hour journey through some of the island’s most iconic sites — from the ancient ruins of Gortyn to the legendary caves of Matala. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, this tour seems to strike a careful balance between cultural exploration and relaxation, making it an appealing option for a range of travelers.

What immediately catches our eye are the chance to walk through history at Gortyn, the relaxed vibe of Matala’s beach and caves, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. We also appreciate the flexibility offered by the tour’s booking options—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance. However, a word of caution: some reviews mention that weather can impact the experience, especially at the caves, so travelers should be prepared for wind or strong sun conditions. This tour is ideal for those craving a mix of archaeology, scenic beach time, and local Cretan flavor.

Good To Know

• Cultural & Historical Richness: Visit the impressive ancient site of Gortyn, once a major city of Crete.
• Relaxing Beach Break: Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and local food at Matala’s famous sands.
• Unique Caves: Explore the carved caves that once housed hippies and ancient inhabitants.
• Flexible Booking & Transfer: Includes hotel pickup, return transport, and the option to book flexibility.
• Moderate Duration: A full 9-hour experience that balances sightseeing with leisure.
• Potential Weather Impact: Wind or weather may affect cave visits and beach enjoyment.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

The Journey Begins: Convenient Pickup & Transport

Your day starts with a friendly driver and multilingual guide, who greet you with a smile and usher you onto an air-conditioned bus. The pickup points cover prominent areas like Heraklion, Malia, and Stalis, making it straightforward to join the trip no matter where you’re based in the north of Crete. The transportation is comfortable, which is especially important given the 68 km drive to Gortyn. The entire process is smooth, with clear instructions sent after booking, ensuring that you’re prepared for the day ahead.

First Stop: Gortyn Archaeological Site

Your first destination is the ancient city of Gortyn, located about 45 km south of Heraklion. With roots stretching back to 3000 BC, Gortyn was a thriving hub during Minoan and Roman times, often compared to Knossos in historical significance. Walking through the ruins, you’ll see remnants of the city’s complex past—think ancient walls, courtyards, and the famous Law Code of Gortyn inscribed on stone tablets.

Traveling back in time here offers genuine insight into the life of ancient Crete, and the site’s sprawling layout is a delight for history buffs. While the entrance fee isn’t included in the tour price, the guided commentary helps you appreciate the site’s importance without needing to be a professional archaeologist. We note that some visitors, like one reviewer, found the site fascinating enough to spend a good chunk of time exploring, although others might wish for more time to soak it all in.

The Heart of the Day: Matala and Its Legendary Caves

Following Gortyn, a scenic drive brings you to Matala, a village that embodies the free-spirited vibe of 1960s hippie culture. The beach here is about 300 meters long, lined with soft sand that invites you immediately to relax. Once you arrive, you’ll have several hours to swim in the crystal-clear waters, soak up the sun, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local taverns. Many visitors comment on the quality of the food, often noting the delicious local tavernas with simple, fresh dishes—perfect after a morning of sightseeing.

The real highlight of Matala is the cliff-side caves, carved into the soft rock over thousands of years. Originally Neolithic dwellings, these caves gained international fame as a hippie hangout in the 1960s, drawing artists, musicians, and free spirits from all around the world. Walking among them, you get a sense of the bohemian history that still lingers in the air. Be warned, though: some reviews mention that the wind can be strong, making walking on the rocks or around the caves uncomfortable or even a little dangerous. One traveler expressed frustration about the weather, saying it made enjoying the beach and caves difficult, and that the excursion might have been better canceled under such conditions.

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The Experience of the Caves & Beach

Exploring the caves is straightforward, and your guide will likely give you some background on their history and significance. The caves’ uneven terrain and gusty winds mean you should wear sturdy shoes and be cautious. The wind was noted as a factor by a reviewer who felt it made the experience unpleasant and dangerous, with sand stinging their skin and eyes. If the weather isn’t ideal, you might prefer to spend your time swimming or relaxing rather than navigating the rocky caves.

Practical Details & What’s Included

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free day. The transportation is in air-conditioned buses, suitable for the warm Cretan climate. Guides speak English, French, and German, so language isn’t a barrier. The tour also covers insurance coverage, adding peace of mind.

You’ll want to bring essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, swimwear, a camera, and cash for snacks or souvenirs. Food and drinks are not included, but the local taverns serve up delicious options perfect for a relaxed lunch.

Cost & Value

For around 9 hours of guided sightseeing, the cost appears reasonable, especially considering the convenience of transportation and the diversity of sights visited. Entrance fees to Gortyn and the caves are not included, but the overall experience offers a meaningful look into Crete’s ancient past and vibrant local culture. It’s a good value for travelers who want a well-organized day that combines history, nature, and local flavor without the need to plan each stop individually.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for history enthusiasts eager to walk in the footsteps of ancient Crete, as well as beach lovers looking to unwind in a scenic setting. It suits those who appreciate authentic experiences—like wandering around old caves and archaeological sites—rather than just lounging on the beach. However, travelers with mobility issues or those sensitive to wind and uneven terrain might find the cave exploration less enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a snapshot of Crete’s diverse appeal: historic ruins, a legendary hippie beach, and a laid-back village vibe. It balances guided sightseeing with free time at the beach, making it suitable for a variety of travelers—from those interested in history to sunbathers craving some relaxation.

While weather conditions can influence the experience, especially at the caves, the overall package provides good value. The convenience of hotel pickup, guided commentary, and the opportunity to explore two iconic sites make it a worthwhile day trip for anyone wanting to experience the best of southern Crete in one go.

If you’re after a flexible, well-organized adventure that mixes ancient history with a touch of bohemian charm, this trip has plenty to offer. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure—plus a windbreaker or hat, just in case.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup and drop-off from specific points around Crete, including Heraklion, Malia, and Stalis.

How long is the drive to Gortyn?
The drive from Heraklion to Gortyn is approximately 45 km, taking around an hour, depending on traffic.

What should I bring for the day?
You should pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a camera, cash, and possibly a windbreaker if the weather looks windy.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of local taverns at Matala offering traditional options.

Is the entrance to Gortyn included?
No, the archaeological site entry fee isn’t covered, so be prepared for that additional cost if you want to explore more deeply.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility if weather or personal plans change.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, the tour isn’t recommended for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and cave access.

To sum it up, this day trip strikes a balance between cultural discovery and beachside relaxation, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a well-rounded taste of Crete. Whether you’re a history geek, a sunbather, or someone curious about hippie lore, you’ll likely find plenty to love here. Just check the weather forecast and pack appropriately, and you’re all set for a memorable day on this beautiful island.

You can check if your dates are available here: