Matala’s main beach below the caves is a lovely crescent but often gets uncomfortably crammed. To escape the crowds, follow signs to Red Beach, reached in a 30-minute scramble over the rocks. It’s hardly a secret, but it does get fewer people, including a smattering of nudists. Bring water and snacks.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
12.4 MILES
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5.79 MILES
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23.32 MILES
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15.96 MILES
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23.67 MILES
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27.17 MILES
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14.63 MILES
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5.59 MILES
In an enchanting spot 3km west of Phaestos, Agia Triada encompasses vestiges of an L-shaped royal villa, a ramp once leading out to sea, and a village…
Nearby attractions
0.41 MILES
Easily overlooked, this pint-sized chapel was carved straight out of a cliff, apparently during Venetian times. It contains some lovely icons and a carved…
0.6 MILES
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1.76 MILES
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1.96 MILES
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3 MILES
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4.59 MILES
Amid fields just outside Kamilari stands a fenced-in, extraordinarily well-preserved circular Minoan tomb with 2m-high stone walls. Side rooms were used…
7. Agia Marina Donkey Sanctuary
4.79 MILES
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5.59 MILES
In an enchanting spot 3km west of Phaestos, Agia Triada encompasses vestiges of an L-shaped royal villa, a ramp once leading out to sea, and a village…
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