Crete isn’t always and everywhere a gentle Mediterranean idyll—its terrain can be raw, its sites austere, its tone brusque. But for those looking for a distinct destination, Crete will be rewarding. Not to mention endless beaches and magnificent mountains, intriguing caves and resonant gorges, and countless villages and sites that provide unexpected and unforgettable experiences. Per square mile, Crete must be one of the most “loaded” places in the world—loaded, that is, in the diversity of history, archaeological sites, natural attractions, tourist amenities, and more. In a world where increasing numbers of travelers have “been there, done that,” Crete remains an endlessly fascinating and satisfying destination.

An elaborate service industry has grown up to please the thousands of foreigners who visit Crete each year. There are facilities now for everyone’s taste, ranging from luxury resorts to guest rooms in villages that have hardly changed over several centuries. You can spend a delightful day in a remote mountain environment where you’re treated to fresh goat cheese and olives; then be back at your hotel within an hour, lying on the beach and enjoying a cool drink.