Crete’s southern coast offers a captivating blend of ancient history and counterculture charm. This guided tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the remnants of Gortys, the former Roman capital, and the iconic Matala Caves, once home to a thriving hippie community. With ample free time and inclusive fees, the excursion promises an engaging exploration of the region’s diverse cultural and natural wonders. What secrets and stories await in this enchanting corner of the Mediterranean?
Key Points
- This full-day guided tour allows visitors to explore the Roman capital of Crete, Gortys, and the famous Matala Hippies Beach.
- The tour includes admission fees, an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide and driver, and liability insurance coverage.
- Visitors can spend 4 hours freely exploring the charming seaside town of Matala and the distinctive sandstone cliffs with natural cave dwellings.
- The Gortys Archaeological Site offers a glimpse into Crete’s Roman heritage, featuring the Gortys Law Code, Roman Odeon, and Byzantine Basilica.
- The tour has a maximum of 50 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience, and offers a flexible cancellation policy.
Tour Overview
This full-day guided tour takes visitors on an exploration of southern Crete, showcasing the archaeological site of Gortys and the renowned Matala Beach.
Traveling by air-conditioned bus, guests will discover the ancient ruins of Gortys, once the Roman capital of Crete.
After exploring this historic site, the tour provides 4 hours of free time to wander the picturesque seaside town of Matala, famous for its iconic caves that were once home to 1960s hippie communities.
The tour includes all necessary fees and taxes, as well as liability insurance coverage, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience for participants.
With a maximum of 50 travelers, this tour offers an intimate and personalized exploration of southern Crete’s highlights.
Inclusions
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional tour guide, and a driver.
Plus, the price covers liability insurance coverage as well as all fees and taxes.
Admission to the Gortys Archaeological Site (€6) and the Matala Caves (€4) are also included in the overall cost of the tour.
Visitors can look forward to discovering the former Roman capital of Crete at the Gortys archaeological site and exploring the famous Matala Caves during their 4 hours of free time in the area.
With all these inclusions, the tour provides a convenient and comprehensive way to experience the highlights of southern Crete.
Pickup Details
Pickup from designated locations around Crete is provided, with specific pickup points in areas such as Sisi, Malia, Stalis, and Hersonissos.
The exact pickup time and location will be communicated to travelers after booking. This ensures a smooth and convenient start to the tour.
Travelers don’t have to worry about transportation, as the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and a professional driver.
With pickups from various locations, the tour caters to visitors staying in different parts of Crete, making it accessible and hassle-free.
The centralized pickup system allows the tour to run efficiently and on schedule, providing a seamless experience for all participants.
Tour Duration and Availability
Typically, the tour operates with a maximum of 50 travelers and confirms the start time with the local provider in advance.
The duration of the tour is a full day, allowing ample time to explore the southern Cretan highlights.
Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the ancient Gortys site, the former Roman capital of Crete, and enjoy 4 hours of free time in the charming town of Matala.
The tour is available regularly, catering to those eager to explore the rich history and picturesque landscapes of this captivating region.
Throughout the experience, travelers can expect an air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable tour guide, and a professional driver, ensuring a comfortable and informative journey.
Cancellation Policy
Travelers can cancel their tour reservation for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, as per the local provider’s policy. This flexible cancellation policy allows customers to make changes to their plans without incurring any penalties.
Whether they need to adjust their schedule or simply change their mind, they can do so without worrying about losing their money. The tour operator understands that plans can change, and they want to ensure a hassle-free experience for all participants.
Gortys Archaeological Site
Visiting the Gortys archaeological site allows travelers to explore the remnants of the former Roman capital of Crete, where they can discover a wealth of ancient ruins and historical artifacts.
The highlight of the site is the renowned Gortys Law Code, a set of inscribed laws carved into limestone slabs dating back to the 5th century BC.
Visitors can also view:
- The ruins of the Roman Odeon, a well-preserved ancient theater.
- The remains of the Temple of Apollo, dedicated to the Greek god of light and music.
- The Byzantine Basilica, showcasing impressive Byzantine-era mosaics.
- The Acropolis of Gortys, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Matala Hippies Beach
After exploring the ancient ruins of Gortys, visitors head to the famous Matala Hippies Beach, a picturesque seaside destination that once attracted a vibrant counterculture community in the 1960s and 1970s.
The beach is famous for its distinctive sandstone cliffs that have been carved into natural cave dwellings, which served as homes for the hippie community.
Today, the caves remain a popular attraction, allowing visitors to step back in time and imagine the free-spirited lifestyle that once thrived here.
With 4 hours of free time, travelers can wander the charming seaside town, relax on the sandy beach, and soak in the unique atmosphere that still pervades this iconic Cretan destination.
Highlights of the Tour
The guided tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore two of southern Crete’s most captivating destinations – the ancient ruins of Gortys and the iconic Matala Hippies Beach.
Travelers will first discover the remarkable archaeological site of Gortys, the former Roman capital of Crete. Next, they’ll enjoy 4 hours of free time in Matala, known for its picturesque seaside caves that were once home to 1960s hippies.
The tour includes:
- Exploring the Gortys archaeological site and learning about its rich history.
- Visiting the famous Matala Caves along the stunning Cretan coastline.
- Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus with a knowledgeable guide.
- Hassle-free pickup from designated locations around Crete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Restroom Facilities During the Tour?
Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. The air-conditioned bus used for transportation has onboard restrooms, and there are also restrooms available at the Gortys archaeological site and in Matala during the free time provided.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour overview indicates that it’s a full-day guided tour, so having your own provisions can be convenient during the free time in Matala.
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Schedule?
The tour schedule is generally fixed, but travelers may be able to request minor adjustments or additional stops if they communicate their preferences to the tour provider in advance. Customization options are limited but can be explored with the tour operator.
What Should I Bring for the Day Trip?
For this day trip, it’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a light jacket or sweater, and any snacks or water you may want during the tour’s free time. Bringing a camera is also encouraged to capture the sights.
Is There an Option to Extend the Free Time in Matala?
Based on the tour overview, there doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the free time in Matala. The tour offers 4 hours of free time in Matala, and the duration and pickup/drop-off times are likely fixed.
Recap
This guided tour of southern Crete offers a unique blend of ancient history and counterculture charm.
Visitors can explore the Gortys archaeological site, where Roman ruins provide a glimpse into the island’s past, and then discover the famous Matala Caves, once home to a thriving hippie community.
With ample free time and inclusive fees, this excursion provides an immersive experience in Crete’s diverse cultural and natural wonders.
