How to use a roadbook
Learn to read the three columns, distances and landmarks to follow your route step by step.
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The diagram above illustrates how to read roadbook instructions. The Trans-Ardennaise used in this example is unavailable while it is being rewritten.
Reading the three columns
Read a roadbook one box at a time. Each instruction combines a distance, a diagram and information to help you recognise your surroundings.
- Left: distances. Total distance from the start, distance since the previous instruction and the box number.
- Centre: the diagram. The direction to follow, the type of road and visible landmarks such as buildings, ruins, lakes or fences.
- Right: additional instructions. Navigation details, speed restrictions, potential hazards and practical information.
The ten elements in the diagram
- Roadbook page number.
- Roadbook title.
- Total route distance.
- Cumulative distance from the start to this box.
- Distance between the previous and current boxes.
- Box number, to follow the instructions in sequence.
- Diagram of the situation at the indicated distance.
- Additional navigation instructions, where applicable.
- Heading, highlighted in yellow.
- GPS coordinates of the waypoint marked with a pin in the diagram.
Green highlight: less than 300 metres
A distance of less than 300 metres to the next box is highlighted in green, so you can see that the next instruction follows shortly.
Get familiar with your roadbook
Before departure, review a few boxes and the symbol legend. Check the distances, directions and accompanying information. On the route, compare the instructions with visible landmarks and follow the boxes in sequence. Take time to learn this way of reading. If you are unsure about an instruction, stop somewhere suitable to check it.
Prepare your navigation files
Your English digital edition includes PDF and GPX files. Import the GPX files into a compatible device or app. Check that the route displays correctly, prepare offline maps, test without an internet connection and arrange a power supply. For OZI or another format, contact us with your device model.
Plan stages and equipment
Allow time for the suggested duration, visits and breaks. Plan overnight stops and supplies. Read the equipment section of your roadbook. Carry a spare tyre in good condition of the same type as those fitted, your locking wheel nut key and tools suitable for your vehicle.
Follow current conditions and signs
GreenTracers routes follow accessible roads and tracks, never private roads, paths or land. Restrictions can change. Respect current signs, adapt your driving to the conditions and do not enter a closed road. Report changes to us so we can update our roadbooks.
Ready for your next trip? Explore our English-language roadbooks.