These sights are the highlights for your vacation
In Matala, the bay with its idyllic beach is the main attraction. Numerous historical residential caves are located in the rocks on the shore, which were temporarily used as a domicile by a hippie community in the 1960s. The beach Kokkini Ammos impresses with its fine-grained, reddish-colored sand. It is only accessible via a narrow entrance and is located a little south of the village. Crete has a wealth of ancient sites to see. You can follow the traces of the Minoans and visit the historical temples and palaces in Palekastro, Knossos, or Vassiliki. In the neighboring Pitsidia, there is an excavation site that uncovered the ruins of the Temple of Loggos and a manor house. The beach of Kommos, located north of Matala, was an ancient port city. Excavations here uncovered Minoan artifacts from these facilities. The excavation site is fenced off, as it is not yet completed. However, you can catch a glimpse of the facility from a distance. If you are planning a hiking vacation in Matala, you should note the unique paths through the island's gorges. The Samaria Gorge, the Myli Gorge, and the Aradena Gorge are well-known. Impressive high plateaus and large freshwater lakes such as Lake Kournas are other worthwhile excursion destinations. Make sure to have good sun protection and sufficient fluid intake during your tours.
How to eat and drink in Greece
Greek cuisine is considered very healthy and delicious with its Mediterranean recipes. It offers many salads, vegetables, fish, and seafood. Cretan olive oil tastes particularly aromatic and goes well with all savory dishes. Treat yourself to grilled mullets, mussels, or lamb in the taverns. Tsatsiki, tomatoes, and cucumber, as well as French fries prepared here from fresh potatoes, go well with these dishes. In Matala, you will find numerous restaurants with beautiful outdoor seating areas offering a great view of the bay and serving freshly prepared dishes. In summer, a small, light meal is taken at noon to avoid overloading the body in the heat. Dinner, on the other hand, is much more substantial and is celebrated with several courses. On your excursions from your apartment to the surrounding area, such as to Listaros or Kamilari, you can discover many inviting taverns.
Your journey to Matala
The village of Matala is located on the south side of the Greek island of Crete, in the Heraklion region. The most convenient way to reach your holiday home or apartment in Matala is by plane. Arrival by car and ferry or by boat is also possible. Heraklion Airport is approximately 65 km away and is located on the north side of the island. Book your flight with a transfer to the villa or with a rental car. You can reach your holiday home by bus or taxi. If you are arriving by car and ferry, it is best to arrive in Heraklion. If you are traveling with your own boat, you can anchor in the bay of Matala, as there is no harbor here.