Full Day 8h
Private
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A Journey into Crete’s Wild Soul — From Sacred Silence to Hippie Vibes
Explore the dramatic contrasts of southern Crete in a premium, private tour that blends natural beauty, spiritual serenity, and iconic beach culture. From the mystical Agiofarago Gorge to the legendary Matala Beach, this journey takes you through two sides of the island few get to experience in a single day.
From Heraklion to the South — Between Saints and Sea
Your day begins in the greater Heraklion area, depending on your accommodation. After meeting your guide and a short tour introduction, we drive through the fertile Messara Plain toward the southern coast.
Our first stop is the charming village of Siva, where you’ll have time for a refreshment or to pick up anything you may need for the day. Just a short drive away, we visit the historic Monastery of Odigitria, a fortified 14th-century monastery with deep spiritual roots and strong ties to the island’s resistance history.
From here, we venture off-road toward the entrance of Agiofarago Gorge — meaning “Gorge of the Saints.” Vehicles stay behind, and we continue on foot along a scenic, easy trail. Surrounded by towering cliffs, wild oleanders, and ancient olive trees, the path through the gorge takes about 30 minutes and ends at a secluded beach with stunning views of the Libyan Sea. Take your time to relax and enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters of this peaceful, untouched haven.
From Solitude to Celebration — Discover Matala
After hiking back, we continue to Matala, a seaside village with a completely different atmosphere. Known for its unique blend of history and counterculture, Matala features a 300-meter sandy beach, flanked by carved Roman tombs that famously became homes for hippies in the 1970s. Dive into the turquoise waters, explore the seaside caves, or just enjoy the vibrant ambiance of this once-bohemian retreat.
We wrap up our day with a delicious lunch at a traditional seaside tavern, soaking in the sun, the flavors, and the unique spirit of Matala before making our way back to Heraklion.
