This query is about routes (on D roads) in the French countryside with the Google Maps warning "This route has restricted usage or private roads." (Please note this is not about Limited Traffic Zones in cities.) When I click on "Details" to see which specific sections of the route have this warning, nothing is indicated! Does anyone know any specifics about this kind of warning? Is this a "Sauf Riverains" situation? An obvious workaround (drivearound?) is to play it safe and just choose an alternate route, but this isn't always possible. For example: Going from L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to Les Baux, Google Maps shows three very different possible routes, but all three routes have "restricted usage or private roads"!!! What's a driver to do?
Posted by
Bristol, UK
2056 posts
I was curious about this. Google maps has turn by turn directions and looking here you can see that the restricted route is indeed in the town centre. Removable bollards are blocking the road, presumably to restrict traffic in the old centre. It’s the same issue whatever route you take. If you are not starting your journey from the centre of town then try using your exact accommodation address.
Posted by
France Southwest - Occitanie
3669 posts
Both L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Les Baux-de-Provence are largely pedestrianized areas inaccessible by car except with special authorization or by emergency services.
If you only specify the town name on Google Maps, it will assume it's the town center (therefore pedestrianized) and will display the limited access notice you see.
If, as Helen suggests, you don't have a more precise address, try this method, specifying parking areas or another close location outside the town center: