Crete: Matala Beach and Hippie caves, Red beach

Exploring Crete’s South Coast: Matala Beach, Hippie Caves, and Red Beach

The Crete: Matala Beach and Hippie Caves, Red Beach tour offers a full day immersed in Crete’s unique coastal scenery and history. Priced at $39.52 per person, this 8 to 9-hour experience departs from various central locations around Heraklion, Malia, Stalis, and more. It features a live guided journey through the famed Matala village, where hippie caves blend with modern charm, and takes visitors to the iconic Red Beach with its striking cliffs and rugged beauty.

This tour suits those interested in beach relaxation, scenic landscapes, and cultural stories. While the drive involves about 1.5 hours each way, plenty of highlights await upon arrival, including crystal-clear waters, historical caves, and a walk through a lively village. A common critique notes the long bus ride and limited time at each stop, yet the spectacular scenery and atmosphere compensate for the travel time.

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Key Points

• Full-day Crete trip exploring Matala, hippie caves, and Red Beach
• Price of $39.52 includes bus transport, a guide, and four hours in Matala
• Pickup from multiple locations around Heraklion, Malia, and Stalis
• Visit the historic caves, once used for tombs and later as hippie homes
• Swim in clear waters and snap photos of the rugged coastline
• Walk to Red Beach, enjoying scenic views and the last hippies

Departing from Central Meeting Points Across Crete

The tour begins with convenient pickups from key locations such as Heraklion, Malia, Stalida, Gouves, and Karteros. Pickup times vary, so checking your specific schedule is essential. The group then boards a modern bus with full air conditioning, providing a comfortable ride through the scenic Crete countryside.

After about 1.5 hours, the bus reaches a break at Heraklion Regional Unit, where travelers have around 20 minutes for a quick refreshment and a chance to enjoy some local snacks. This helps break up the journey before arriving at the main destination.

Discovering Matala Village and Its Unique Atmosphere

Once in Matala, the tour allows around four hours to explore at your own pace. The village is known for its colorful murals and small shops selling local crafts. Visitors can enjoy a sea swim or snorkeling, with the option to walk around the scenic streets and soak up the laid-back hippie vibe.

The highlight here is the visit to the ancient caves in the cliffs. These prehistoric tombs later became homes for hippies in the 1960s, giving the caves a counterculture charm. While entrance fees to the caves are €5, this fee is not included in the tour price. The guides lead you through the caves, sharing stories of their history and the free-spirited lifestyle associated with the site.

Scenic Drive to the Red Beach and Its Rugged Cliffs

After exploring Matala, the tour proceeds along a scenic route to the Red Beach. This is a walking adventure involving a steep climb to reach the famous pinkish cliffs and the small, wild beach below. The scenery is stunning, with dramatic cliffs and towering rock formations framing the beach.

The Red Beach is known for its rugged beauty and remaining hippie presence. It’s a place where the last hippies still gather, adding to the beach’s bohemian atmosphere. Visitors are free to take photos and relax. The climb may be challenging for those less fit, and the sand is generally normal-colored, despite the name, with no pink sand present.

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Photo Opportunities: Grand River and Kourtaliotikos Gorge

On the return journey, the guide leads the group to photo stops at the Grand River, where rushing waters create striking images amidst lush surroundings. The tour also offers views of the Kourtaliotikos Gorge cliffs, towering above the landscape, providing excellent scenic photo opportunities for those capturing the trip.

These stops highlight Crete’s natural beauty with their impressive geological formations and rushing waters, making for memorable snapshots.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

For $39.52, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off from designated main roads and hotel exits, a live tour guide speaking several languages (English, French, Polish, Italian, Russian), and a modern, air-conditioned bus. The liability insurance from Generali adds peace of mind.

Food and drinks are not included, so bringing cash for snacks or a meal in Matala is advisable. The entrance fee to the caves (€5) is also separately paid if you choose to explore them.

Recognizing the Tour’s Strengths and Limitations

The main strengths of this tour are the scenic landscapes and the historic caves that echo the free spirit of the 1960s hippie movement. The guides are praised for being friendly and informative, helping visitors understand the significance of each stop.

However, some limitations include the long bus ride, with about four hours spent traveling each way, and limited time at each stop. One review notes that only about three hours are available at Matala, which can feel rushed. The climb to Red Beach requires a moderate level of fitness, so less mobile travelers should consider this.

Who Would Most Enjoy This Tour

This experience is ideal for those interested in scenic coastal views, beach lovers, and history enthusiasts curious about Crete’s hippie past. It suits travelers prepared for a full day of travel and moderate walking. Those seeking luxury or a more relaxed pace might find the long bus ride less appealing, but the visual rewards and unique cultural insights make it worthwhile.

Final Thoughts on Crete’s Matala Tour

The Crete: Matala Beach and Hippie Caves, Red Beach tour offers a cost-effective way to see some of the island’s most memorable sights. The scenic drive, historic caves, and rugged Red Beach provide distinctive experiences that reflect Crete’s natural beauty and counterculture history.

While the travel time is substantial, the scenery and atmosphere at each stop justify the journey. This tour best suits those open to a full day’s adventure, eager to explore beyond the major towns and dive into local stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the bus ride to Matala?
The journey takes about 1.5 hours each way, with some time allocated for breaks.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transportation, a live guide, liability insurance, and four hours in Matala.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s advisable to bring cash for snacks or a meal.

Is there an entrance fee for the caves?
Yes, the entrance fee to the caves is €5, payable separately.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection (hat, towel), camera, beachwear, and cash.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not recommended for those with mobility impairments due to the climb to Red Beach.

What languages are available on the tour?
Guides speak English, French, Polish, Italian, and Russian.

How much time do I get at each stop?
You have about 4 hours in Matala, with time to explore, swim, and shop. The Red Beach visit involves a climb and walk.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s best suited for adults and older children, given the climb and travel duration.

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