On a mountain overlooking the town of Trapani and Egadi Islands, stands Erice. This village has very ancient origins. It is said that it was founded by the exiled Trojans who fleeing in the Mediterranean sea found refuge on this mountain. Then came the Arabs, the Normans, the Spanish. Each of these populations has left evidence of their passage.
Reaching the village is possible either along the road that climbs from the center of Trapani (12 km of curves) or with a panoramic cablecar. Certainly the cablecar is the fastest way to reach the summit of Mount Erice. Enjoying the panorama without worrying about driving in the midst of numerous hairpin bends is much more relaxing. Before deciding to get Erice by cablecar, check if the cableway isn’t closed due to maintenance or adverse climatic conditions (strong wind).
I had to get there by car because the cable car was closed for maintenance.The road is actually winding but also very panoramic. Reaching the top of the mountain gives you a breathtaking view. If you are lucky enough to have a serene day, you would have a unique p
anorama. The road arrives to the fortified walls. The gate facing Trapani (Porta Trapani), is the main entrance of the village. From that side there are panoramic views that give an unrivalled view of Trapani and of the Egadi Islands.
Enter in the village, take the main streets leading to the village main square and towards the castle of Venus (Norman castle). Next to the castle there are the medieval towers of the Balio that were once connected with the casle by a drawbridge. From that side you can enjoy the view of Cofano mountain and Valderice.Walking in this maze of narrow streets is a pleasure. I see glimpses of the distant sea between stone houses this alone deserve the visit.
But you can not go to Erice without stopping in the pastry shop Da Maria Grammatico. It is surely considered one of the best pastries in Sicily. Its specialty is almond paste. If you want to learn some about Sicilian sweets, book a lesson in her cookery school. If you have time, visit Mother Church (Duomo dell’Assunta) and its bell tower. It is possible to buy a special ticket to visit both and the ancient monastery too. Before leaving Erice, I recommend the arancini made by Tonda Bar near the entrance to the village (Porta Trapani). The Arancini 
are round rice fritters filled in many ways. The most classic are those with meat sauce, with butter or with ham and cheese. If you eat too much … remember that the road back is full of curves ..
Have a nice visit!
Useful Information
Nearest Airports:
Trapani Airport – TPS ( 27 km far from Erice)
Low Cost Airlines operating on these Airports: Ryanair. (with many destanations)
