Western Sicily touring base?
 

I'm searching for a town/hotel to serve as the base for a three day visit to Western Sicily in late October. It appears that Erice may be the most charming locale, but I'm concerned that slow going on roads into and out of town might make it less than ideal as a touring base. Is this a legitimate concern? If so, what/where is a good alternative?

Absolutely without question: TRAPANI. Especially if you're relying on public transportation!

We'll have a rental car...but the map suggests lots of switchbacks and such on the roads into and out of Erice.

I agree with GAC -- Trapani should serve your needs well. I didn't love Erice -- it was very touristy. Nice for a stop, but I would hesitate to stay there.

I just returned from Sicily. We stayed in Erice for 1 full day and 1 night. It was lovely, but that is more than enough time to see Erice. You are right - it is difficult getting up and down the mountain, so I would not used that as a home base. Depending where you want to go, Palermo is a possibility or Trappani. Even though Palermo was not my most favorite place, you can go to Erice, Trapanni, Segesta, Monreale and Cefalu from there in a v ery short periord of time. So determine which towns you want to see in that periord and then decide.

It takes about 20 minutes from valley floor to Erice.