tourism

Samaria Gorge Hit by Pattern of Unjustified Weather Closures

Sunday, 14 June 2026/Source: Flashnews/1 min read

The Samaria Gorge in the Chania region of western Crete was closed on a recent Sunday by OФΥΠΕΚΑ, the Greek government agency responsible for managing natural parks, citing anticipated adverse weather conditions. The closure was later deemed unjustified, as the forecast conditions did not materialize. This is part of a pattern of repeated precautionary closures that have not been supported by actual weather events. The frequent unscheduled closures are having a measurable impact on local businesses and tour operators who depend on visitors to the gorge, one of Europe's longest and most popular hiking destinations. Tourists planning to hike Samaria are advised to check the official OФΥΠΕΚΑ announcement channels or contact their accommodation or local tour operator on the morning of their planned visit before making the journey to the trailhead at Xyloskalo, as closures can be announced with little notice.

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