What's Included
Basic vs. Full Road Trip Itineraries
Ultimate Routes provides expert-scouted driving itineraries in two distinct tiers: Basic and Full. While every digital pack includes the essential navigation links needed to start your engine, our Full itineraries provide a deep dive into logistics, timing, and elevation data. Use the comparison guide below to choose the planning level that fits your driving style.
What You Get With Every Route
Every itinerary includes:
- Carefully selected driving roads: Routes designed for enjoyment, not just efficiency
- Structured route guidance: A clear overview of how your journey flows
- A complete journey overview: Understand the full route before you start
- Flexible travel plan: Adapt the route to suit your pace and preferences
Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | Basic | Full / Customised |
| Interactive Google Maps Links | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| High Level Itinerary with Distance/Time | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Basic Tips | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Daily Mileage & Driving Times | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Overnight Stops | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Map | ||
| Overview | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Daily | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Highlights | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Elevation Profile | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Mountain Passes | ||
| Individual Pass Seasonal Dates/URLs | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Generic Pass Sites | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Departure Time Examples | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Breakfast / Lunch Stops (where applicable) | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Hotels | ||
| 3 x Hotel Options per overnight stop (with booking.com / hotels.com) | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Links to look for your own hotel for each overnight stop (with booking.com / hotels.com) | ✔️ | ✔️ |
|
Points of Interest (PoI) |
||
| Which are part of the route, per day | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Stops where you can visit PoI, where applicable (e,g. viewing area; car park) | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Useful Links (includes sites for tickets; driving in country tips etc) | ❌ | ✔️ |
| Emergency Contact Numbers (for each country visited) | ❌ | ✔️ |
Feature Breakdown
1. Interactive Navigation (Standard)
Every PDF includes "one-tap" buttons that load your daily route directly into Google Maps. These routes are not the 'fastest' paths calculated by an algorithm; they are designed for driving flow and scenic priority. While we avoid traffic-heavy urban centres, we will occasionally utilise faster roads when dictated by specific requirements, such as reaching a ferry terminal or connecting you to the primary highlights of the trip.
2. Elevation Profiles (Full Only)
Essential for mountain driving in the Alps or Pyrenees. We provide an elevation graph so you can visualize the climbs, and descents before you arrive, allowing for better vehicle management and passenger comfort.
3. Curated Logistics & Timing (Full Only)
We take the guesswork out of your schedule.
- Departure Times: Suggested start times help you plan for mid-day lunch stops and arrival at your overnight accommodation.
- Hotel Suggestions: Hand-picked, driver-friendly accommodations (where possible) for location and quality.
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Points of Interest: Curated landmarks, scenic viewpoints, and local hidden gems found along the route, where appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade from a Basic to a Full itinerary?
Currently, itineraries are sold as distinct packs. If you prefer a comprehensive logistical guide with elevation data and hotel suggestions, we recommend selecting the Full version at checkout.
Are the navigation links compatible with CarPlay?
Yes. Since our routes launch directly into Google Maps on your smartphone, they are fully compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via your vehicle’s infotainment system.
Do you include GPX files for standalone Sat-Navs?
No, our standard packs are optimised for Google Maps. If you require standalone GPX files for a specific GPS device (like Garmin or TomTom), please contact us to discuss your requirements further.
What type of itinerary will I receive for a custom route request?
All custom route requests are delivered as a Full Itinerary. This ensures you receive our most comprehensive package, including detailed daily mileage, interactive navigation links, curated hotel recommendations, and suggested lunch stops tailored specifically to your bespoke journey.
Is everything I need included?
Yes — each itinerary provides a complete overview, navigation guidance, and key highlights to help you follow the journey with ease.