TOUR D - ERICE & SEGESTA
Excursions
- £75 - £85
- Approximately 8 hours
- Limited capacity
- Up to three hours walking
This tour takes in both the charming Sicilian town of Erice, and the important archaeological site of Segesta.
Departing the quayside at Trapani, we drive to the cablecar station, from where we reach Erice, a beautiful medieval town located on top of the mountain of the same name. Here it is possible to admire a panoramic view of Trapani, with its salt pans, and also the Egadi Islands. Erice is a charming town where time seems to have stood still, and myths, legends and history are all mixed together. Legend has it that the son of Venus and Poseidon established a town here, and built a temple to honour his mother, the Goddess of Love. Erice is characterised by its winding cobbled roads, beautiful courtyards and churches.
Our visit here begins at Porta Trapani, one of three Norman town-gates located close to the Mother Church. Following a visit to the Mother Church, which was built in 1313, we continue to the Bailo Gardens, situated by the Castle of Venus, located on the jagged edge of the mountain peak. The castle was built on the former site of the Temple of Venus. We can then enjoy some free time to explore the typical cobbled streets and admire local houses and hidden corners. Next we drive to a local restaurant for lunch.
Feeling refreshed, we travel to Segesta, one of the most important archaeological sites in the province of Trapani. It was once the most important town of western Sicily, inhabited by the Elimi. Upon arrival, we visit the 5th century Doric Temple, the focal point of the archaeological site. The Temple, which dominates the hilltop just outside the ancient city, was never completed – the pillars were never fluted and a roof was never added. It is one of the best-preserved Greek temples in the world. Following our visit to the Temple, we re-board our tour coach and drive back to Trapani and our awaiting ship.
TOUR NOTES: This is a strenuous tour, which involves approximately one hour and 45 minutes of walking at Erice, and one hour at Segesta, over hilly, cobbled ground. There are up to around 30 steps to negotiate. Unfortunately it is not suitable for passengers with limited mobility or wheelchair users. For reference, there will be approximately 45 minutes of free time, where walking is at the discretion of the individual. Please note that as this tour involves travelling on the cablecar, it is not recommended for those passengers with a fear of heights or those suffering from dizziness. There may be a queue to board the cablecar. In adverse weather conditions, the cablecar may be closed, in which case a coach will take passengers up to Erice instead. Religious practice requires passengers to dress conservatively when entering the Church (i.e. shoulders and knees should be covered). Only the Temple will be visited at Segesta. Places of interest may be visited in a different order to that described. Erice is at about 752 metres in height and therefore it may be chillier here than in Trapani port.
DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2011 CANARIES & MED SEASON
Snack or meal provided
Refreshments available
Free time
Shopping opportunity
Wheelchair access
Swimming opportunity
All prices are based on operating costs, tariffs and rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.
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