tourism

MP Challenges Samaria Gorge Closure Despite Calm Weather

Thursday, 18 June 2026/Source: Haniotika Nea/1 min read

Samaria Gorge, one of Crete's most popular hiking destinations in the Chania region, has been temporarily closed according to a statement by local MP Pavlos Polakis. Polakis publicly questioned the decision, noting the closure was enacted despite calm weather conditions at the time. The gorge, which stretches 16 km through the White Mountains in western Crete, draws thousands of hikers each season and is managed by the Samaria National Park authority. Closures are typically ordered for safety reasons including high winds, flash flood risk, or fire danger. Visitors planning to hike Samaria Gorge should check current access status with local tour operators or the park authority before traveling to the trailhead at Xyloskalo, as conditions and decisions can change quickly during the summer season.

Read original article → Haniotika Nea