tourism

Samaria Gorge Protesters Open Gates for Free as Grievances Mount

Friday, 19 June 2026/Source: Haniotika Nea/1 min read

On Friday morning, local business owners from Omalos and Agia Roumeli staged a protest by opening the entrance to Samaria Gorge and allowing visitors in free of charge. The demonstration was organized by professionals from the two villages located at either end of the gorge, expressing grievances likely related to local economic or infrastructure concerns. Samaria Gorge, one of Europe's longest gorges at 16 kilometers, is a major attraction in western Crete and normally charges an entry fee. The protest highlights ongoing tensions between local communities and authorities managing the national park. Tourists planning to hike the gorge should check current entry conditions before visiting, as access and ticketing arrangements may be subject to change during periods of local action. The gorge is accessible from Omalos in the south of Chania prefecture.

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