A route is only as good as the points that shape it. Tarmac uses three kinds, and knowing the difference is the fastest way to plan the ride you actually want.
Stop points
A stop is somewhere you'll pull in: a café, a fuel station, a viewpoint or the finish. Navigation brings you to it and treats it as the end of a leg.
Via points
A via is somewhere you pass through without stopping — a village or junction you want the route to include. Navigation announces it, but carries straight on.
Shaping points
A shaping point silently bends the line. Use it to force the route over a specific pass or along a particular B-road. It isn't announced and never counts as a stop.
A worked example
- Stop: meet at Llangollen.
- Shaping point: on the A542 above the Horseshoe Pass.
- Via: Ruthin.
- Stop: café at Llyn Brenig.
- Stop: finish back at Llangollen.