Some 200 meters uphill from the village of Psychro sits the Diktaean Cave, a Minoan cult site identified in 1880 as the mythological birthplace of Zeus. Whether or not you buy the mythology, the cave itself is genuinely impressive — one of the most striking of Crete's 3,400 caves, with dramatic stalactites and a dark underground lake.
The climb up is steep and takes about 15 minutes. Arrive before 4 pm, as the last entry is at 4:45 and you will want time inside. Several tavernas cluster around the parking lot at the base; if tour buses are in, walk a short way into Psychro village for a quieter lunch.