tourism

Samaria Gorge Operators Urge Crete Officials on Closure Policy

Saturday, 20 June 2026/Source: Haniotika Nea/1 min read

Professionals working along the Omalos to Agia Roumeli route have formally requested an urgent meeting with the Organization of Natural Environment and Climate Change (OФҮПЕКА) and the Region of Crete to review the procedures governing closures of Samaria Gorge. The gorge, one of Crete's most visited natural sites, connects the Omalos plateau in the White Mountains to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea. Businesses and operators who depend on tourist traffic through the gorge are pushing for greater transparency and advance notice around closure decisions, which can affect thousands of visitors each season. Tourists planning to hike Samaria Gorge should check official opening status before traveling, as closures can occur due to weather or safety conditions. The 16 km trail typically operates from May through October.

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