Samaria Gorge Unexpectedly Closed, Locals Outraged

Sunday, 14 June 2026/Source: Google News/1 min read

The Samaria Gorge, one of Crete's most visited natural attractions in the Chania region, was closed today, prompting strong reactions from locals and business owners in the village of Agia Roumeli. Critics describe the closure as unjustified and damaging to the area's reputation, stating there was no clear reason given for the shutdown. The gorge, a 16-kilometre trek through the White Mountains ending at the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, is a popular full-day excursion accessible from Chania. Tourists planning to hike the gorge should check official status with the Samaria Gorge National Park authority or their accommodation before traveling, as closures can affect ferry schedules from Agia Roumeli back to Sfakia or Paleochora. No reopening date has been announced.