Our trip to the Saturday Market in the charming village of Kathikas began with a sense of cautious optimism. As we made our way from Pissouri, the sky ahead told a different story—dark, brooding clouds gathered ominously over the hills. Still, we pressed on, hopeful that the weather might hold off long enough for us to enjoy the day.
Perched at an altitude of 655 metres, Kathikas greeted us with a noticeable chill in the air. We quickly set up our stall, clutching cups of hot coffee to keep the cold at bay. Mandy’s display of beautifully handmade beaded items added a splash of colour to the otherwise grey morning, and it wasn’t long before the village square began to come alive.
Despite the threatening skies, visitors started to arrive, wandering between the various stalls that showcased an impressive range of mostly handmade goods. There was a warm, friendly atmosphere as people browsed, chatted, and supported local artisans. Mandy was pleased to make a few sales, and it was lovely to see her creations being appreciated.
Of course, no market visit would be complete without a treat or two, and we couldn’t resist stopping by the ever-popular “Mr Pie Man.” With steaming coffee in hand, we tucked into a couple of delicious sausage rolls—simple pleasures that tasted even better in the crisp mountain air.
Meanwhile, the bouncy castle was doing a roaring trade. The laughter and excitement of children filled the square, completely unfazed by the weather, as they bounced and played with endless energy.
Unfortunately, our hopes of dodging the rain didn’t last. After a couple of hours, the heavens suddenly opened with a vengeance. What started as rain quickly turned into a torrential downpour, complete with hail. Within moments, stalls were soaked, goods were hastily covered or packed away, and visitors scrambled for shelter.
Reluctantly, like many others, we had to admit defeat. The market came to an abrupt end as stallholders packed up and called it a day, drenched but still in good spirits.
Though cut short, our visit to the Kathikas Saturday Market was memorable—a mix of community warmth, small successes, tasty treats, and a dramatic finale courtesy of the weather. It’s all part of the experience, and one we won’t forget anytime soon.