Family Adventure in Crete: A 15-Day Cultural Exploration

Matala's Magic and Minoan Mysteries

Today was a day of contrasts, a blend of sun-kissed relaxation and exploration of ancient history. We journeyed through southern Crete, where the echoes of Minoan civilization meet the free spirit of the '60s. It was a day that reminded me why I love to travel – the thrill of discovery, the joy of experiencing new cultures, and the simple pleasure of spending time with my family.


Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Arismari & Varsamo in Heraklion. I’d read some great reviews, and it certainly lived up to the hype. The Cretan omelets with greens were a particular hit, a perfect start to a day of exploration. Sofia, ever the adventurous eater, even tried a bit of my hordogardoumo – grilled intestines, a local specialty! Hans, of course, stuck to his usual strong coffee, fueling up for the day ahead.


After breakfast, we set off towards Matala beach. The drive itself was stunning, winding through rolling hills dotted with olive groves and vineyards. As we approached Matala, the landscape transformed, revealing dramatic cliffs and the sparkling Libyan Sea. I must admit, I felt a thrill of excitement as we parked the car and walked towards the beach. I’d heard so much about Matala, its history, and its unique atmosphere, and I couldn’t wait to experience it for myself.


Matala beach is truly something special. The golden sand, the crystal-clear water, and the imposing cliffs with their carved caves create a scene that feels both ancient and timeless. Of course, Matala is famous for its caves, which date back to the Neolithic Age and were later used as tombs during the Roman period. But it was in the 1960s and 70s that Matala truly became iconic, when it was taken over by hippies who lived in the caves, creating a unique and free-spirited community.


Discover the beauty of Matala Beach in Crete, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters and rich history awaits.

As we walked along the beach, Sofia was immediately captivated by the caves. She peppered me with questions about who lived there and what it was like. I tried to explain the history of the caves and the story of the hippies who sought refuge here, seeking an alternative way of life. I told her about Joni Mitchell, who immortalized her experiences in Matala in her song 'Carey'. It’s hard to imagine now, but Matala was once a haven for those seeking peace, love, and freedom.

Travel is more than seeing the sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

We spent a few hours on the beach, swimming in the refreshing water and soaking up the sun. Sofia built sandcastles, while Hans and I relaxed and watched the world go by. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for a time I never knew, a time when Matala was a symbol of counterculture and rebellion. Today, the caves are protected, and Matala is a popular tourist destination, but the spirit of the hippies still lingers in the air, adding a unique charm to this beautiful place.


For lunch, we decided to try Marilena Restaurant. It was a delightful experience. The restaurant had a very family friendly atmosphere, and the food was amazing. We enjoyed some traditional Greek dishes, and the waiters were very attentive and lovely. It was one of our favorite places to eat on our holiday.


After our relaxing time at Matala beach, we packed up and headed towards our next destination: the Minoan Palace of Phaistos. The drive was relatively short, and as we approached the palace, I could feel the weight of history pressing down on me. Phaistos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete, second only to Knossos. It was a major center of Minoan civilization, and its palace is a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of this ancient culture.


Explore the ancient wonders of the Minoan Palace of Phaistos, a historical landmark in Crete that showcases the grandeur of Minoan civilization.

As we walked through the ruins of the palace, I tried to imagine what life was like here thousands of years ago. The Minoans were a sophisticated and advanced civilization, with a complex social structure, a thriving economy, and a rich artistic tradition. Their palace at Phaistos was a center of power, a place where rulers lived, ceremonies were held, and goods were traded.


Sofia was fascinated by the ruins, and she loved exploring the different rooms and courtyards. She asked endless questions about the Minoans, their customs, and their beliefs. I tried my best to answer her questions, drawing on my knowledge of history and archaeology. It was a wonderful opportunity to share my passion for the past with my daughter, and to see her eyes light up with curiosity and wonder.


According to a statement, the Central Archaeological Council approved reports on stabilizing and restoring ancient remains at the site south of Heraklion, replacing the shelters of exposed architectural parts that were built in the '60s, and supporting the slopes of the Minoan Palace, particularly against flooding. As Culture Minister Lina Mendoni said, “The Minoan Palace of Phaistos, the second most important palace complex on Crete, is a major archaeological site of high tourist attraction, which is included in the candidacy folder Greece has submitted for a serial registration of Minoan palaces on UNESCO's World Heritage List of monuments in 2025.”


We spent several hours exploring the palace, marveling at its architecture, its art, and its history. As the sun began to set, we reluctantly made our way back to the car, our minds filled with images of Minoan civilization and the echoes of the past. The Palace of Phaistos is truly a special place.


Before heading back to our accommodation, we stopped at a local shop to pick up some souvenirs and Cretan products. I wanted to bring back something that would remind me of our time in Crete, something that would capture the essence of this beautiful island and its rich culture. I settled on some local olive oil, some thyme honey, and a small ceramic replica of the Phaistos Disc, an ancient artifact that remains one of the greatest mysteries of Minoan civilization.


Uncover the essence of Crete with handmade souvenirs and authentic local products in Heraklion's charming store.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a special meal at Thigaterra - The Art of Slow Food. I had heard great things about this restaurant, and I was eager to experience its unique approach to Cretan cuisine. Thigaterra is committed to the principles of the slow food movement, which emphasizes the use of local, seasonal ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and sustainable farming practices. This was so in line with my personal values, so I was curious to try it.


Discover Thigaterra: A premier destination for authentic Greek slow food in Ag. Dimitrios, celebrating local flavors with every dish.

As we sat down at our table, I was immediately struck by the restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere. The décor was rustic and elegant, with stone walls, wooden beams, and soft lighting. The menu was filled with tempting dishes, each one highlighting the flavors of Crete and the creativity of the chef. We ordered a selection of appetizers to share, including some delicious snails, some grilled octopus, and a traditional Cretan salad. For our main courses, Hans chose the lamb, Sofia went for the moussaka, and I opted for a seafood dish made with fresh local fish.


Every dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The ingredients were fresh and of the highest quality, and the cooking was masterful. It was truly a culinary experience to remember, a celebration of Cretan cuisine and the slow food movement. We savored every bite, enjoying the company of each other and the ambiance of the restaurant. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


As we drove back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day’s experiences. We had explored ancient ruins, relaxed on a beautiful beach, and savored delicious food. But more than that, we had connected with the history, the culture, and the spirit of Crete. It was a day that I will cherish for a long time, a reminder of the power of travel to open our minds, to broaden our horizons, and to bring us closer together as a family.


Tomorrow, we’re planning to explore the Rouvas forest and visit the Amazonas Park. I’m particularly excited about the forest, as I’ve heard it’s a beautiful and tranquil place, perfect for a nature walk. And Sofia is thrilled about the prospect of seeing some exotic birds at the Amazonas Park. It promises to be another day of adventure and discovery, and I can’t wait to share it with my family.


As I sit here writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to travel and to experience new cultures. Travel is more than just seeing the sights; it’s about connecting with people, learning about history, and expanding our understanding of the world. It’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime, and sharing those memories with the people we love.


And as I look forward to tomorrow’s adventures, I know that our journey through Crete is far from over. There are still so many places to explore, so many things to see, and so many experiences to be had. And I can’t wait to share them all with you, my dear readers. Until then, thank you for joining me on this journey, and I hope you’ll stay tuned for more tales from the beautiful island of Crete.