Matala

Matala

Matala

Matala

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Info about Matala 

Matala is a small and charming coastal town, best known for its excellent beach and the limestone caves carved into the cliffside right by the shore.
Matala Beach is one of the most famous beaches on Crete, featuring crystal-clear, deep blue waters. The beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and small cafés. It is sheltered by cliffs on either side, but the waves can still be quite strong, so one should be cautious when entering the water.

The caves were inhabited by hippies for many years until they were closed off for sanitary reasons. During the 1960s, the hippie colony was visited by famous artists such as Bob Dylan, Cat Stevens, and Joan Baez, among others. It was thanks to these well-known figures that Matala gained its fame. Today, an annual music festival celebrates the town's hippie heritage with live performances.

Following in the hippies’ footsteps, tourists began flocking to the town, which has since evolved into a tourist destination proudly showcasing its hippie history.
Matala offers plenty of tavernas, bars, accommodations, and other amenities, as well as stunning views over the Libyan Sea.

During the Minoan period, Matala served as the port town for Festos, the second-largest palace complex on Crete after Knossos.
Festos is well worth a visit and is located not far from the town.