Which maps? Bilbao to Cherbourg

[Smartbazza]

Afternoon,

I’m planning a trip entering Spain at Bilbao then taking two weeks to finally get the boat in Cherbourg.

Quick question which hardcopy maps would you recommend for initial planning?

Thanks

Barry

 

[wessie]

For France: https://www.themapcentre.com/michelin-regional-driving-maps-1200000---2025-92-c.asp with the orange cover
I'm currently looking at mine for the Lot valley as we will be there in September

For Spain https://www.themapcentre.com/michelin-regional-maps-95-c.asp but a less detailed scale
Some regions have a more detailed scale https://www.themapcentre.com/michelin-zoom-tourist-maps-136-c.asp

For me, the Michelin maps are the best for touring, aided by the green snake along more scenic roads.

 

[Smartbazza]

Good man, many thanks

Barry

 

[Wapping]

Maps are very personal things.

Not least, how much intimate detail do you need? Just the main roads and towns or every goat track and one horse hamlet?

I too like Michelin maps, in assorted scales and detail. Others like the maps offered by IGN; I don’t like them as I think they are too ‘busy’, giving me details I don’t want or need.

Go along to a half decent bookshop and find a map you like. Or buy a couple, they are dirt cheap and last for years.

 

[Arsey]

Afternoon,

I’m planning a trip entering Spain at Bilbao then taking two weeks to finally get the boat in Cherbourg.

Quick question which hardcopy maps would you recommend for initial planning?

Thanks

Barry

Probably Spain and France.

 

[Si Yates]

Anything Michelin if it's green ride it! Throw the sat nav in the bin

 

[The Other PaulG]

Also check out the Michelin bikers map of France as recommended by Waps some time ago. You can easily plan a route that takes in a number of their recommended sections.

 

[Wapping]

When taking the green ‘scenic’ routes, consider:

A. That they sometimes pass through village, after village, which (whilst all very ‘scenic’) sometimes does not make for smooth progress. In short, read the map.

B. The side of the road which is bordered green, indicates the side with the view. Chose your direction of travel accordingly. Again, read the map.

C. You’ll maybe not be the only person on the ‘green’ routes, so don’t be surprised (and don’t moan) if there is Sid and Doris Bonkers, slowly going along, taking in the scenery.

D. It’s only Michelin’s option as to what is ‘scenic’. Scenic does not always guarantee ‘Great awesome roads, mate’. Some are as dull as ditchwater to ride along.

 

[Smartbazza]

Thanks Wapping et al,

General plan is about a week in Spain crossing the Pyrenees, then a couple of days heading to Cazals, two days to boat and home.

We based ourselves in Pau and enjoyed the twisties for three day mate.

Barry