For the Greeks, Crete is megalonissos —the big island—and true to that designation it packs plenty of stunning scenery and cultural marvels. The fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, it is about 160 miles from east to west. Its southerly location means you can hit the beach even in November, while historic Cretan cities like Heraklion and Chania crackle with activity all year long. This size and elongated shape presents travelers who may not have a lot of time with a choice, though: eastern Crete or west?

Western Crete: Gorgeous beaches and ancient heritage

Cretan terrain is rugged and even more so in the mountainous west where the island’s highest peak, Psiloritis, rises more than 8,000 feet. Western Crete is also home to some spectacular beaches and Chania, an

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