Matala Crete Greece: guide and information
Matala Crete, Greece
Matala Crete, Greece
Matala village is located on the southwestern coast of Crete, about a ninety-minute drive from Iraklion (via Agia Varvara - Agii Deka - Mires). Matala is famous since ancient times for its magnificent cave-pocked cliffs.

Matala with its coved sandy beach and its caves was chosen in late sixties by the "flowers' children" to become their "paridise on earth". Though not frequented by hippies anymore, Matala, still carries a certain aura of liberty and of "flower power".

Today Matala is modern holiday resort that attracts beach lovers who enjoy its lively nightlife and low-key atmosphere. Matala is an ideal starting point for excursions to the archaeological sites in the area: Phaestos, Agia Triada and Gortyna

The picturesque taverns on the beach of Matala are ideal for romantic and carefree evenings. Try the local wine and Raki together with a traditional meal or fresh fish from the Libyan sea.

There is also a market that has a bazaar atmosphere with many shop doors opening onto the covered streetlocal wine and snaps (raki) with a traditional meal or fresh fish from the Libyan sea.

Most of the shops in Matala offer standard Greek tourist items, but there is a gallery featuring local art work, a folkart shop offering many items carved from olive wood, and a store offering the official museum reproductions of many Minoan items

Map of Matala Crete, Greece
Matala Crete DimitrisVilla GNTO License