Matala is a stone\’s throw away from Pitsidia (just 3 km) and 65 km from Heraklion. Matala served as the ancient port of Phaistos and Gortys and was recently developed into a modern holiday resort with its beach awarded for Blue Flag. In Matala there is a cave known as \”Brutus Speliano\” which according to the legend was used by the Roman leader Brutus. Owing to its exceptional natural beauty, Matala became the meeting point for the \”flower power\” in 1965, with the captivating bay being regarded – not unjustifiably – as one of the best beaches in Crete.
The artificial caves, carved on the slope overlooking the beach, have probably been used as prehistoric dwellings and places of worship, during the First and the Second century, as tombs. During the 60s they hosted the world community of hippies. Today the caves are open to the public and are protected by the Archaeological Service.
- Access by Boat: NO
- Access by Bus: YES
- Access by Car: YES
- Accessible for people with special needs: YES
- Access on Foot: NO
- Beach Type: THICK SAND
- Blue Flag: YES
- Near Restaurants: YES
- Lifeguard: YES
- Natural Shade: YES
- Near Accommodation: YES
- Nudist beach: YES
- Offroad: NO
- Sea Activities: YES
- Surfing: YES
- Umbrellas and Sunbeds: YES
- Depth: NORMAL