tourism

Samaria Gorge Closes After Strong Earthquakes Hit Crete

Saturday, 20 June 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

The Samaria Gorge in the Chania region of western Crete has been closed to visitors following two strong earthquakes that struck the area. Approximately 566 people were inside the gorge at the time of the tremors. Authorities activated emergency protocols and the gorge was shut as a precautionary safety measure to allow for damage assessment and to ensure visitor safety along the 16-kilometre trail. Tourists planning to hike the Samaria Gorge should check with local tour operators or the Samaria National Park management before heading to the trailhead, as the closure may remain in effect until inspections confirm the path is safe. The gorge typically runs from Xyloskalo at the Omalos plateau down to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli. No injuries among hikers have been reported at this time.

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