A method is disclosed for generating routes in an area covered by an electronic map. The map comprises a plurality of segments representing navigable segments of a navigable network in the area covered by the electronic map. A first route is generated between a first location and a second location in the area. A central portion of the first route is defined, wherein the central portion has an extent along the first route that is determined based on a distance between the first and second locations. The relative extent of the central portion along the first route is inversely related to the distance between the first and second locations. One or more navigable segments forming the defined central portion along the first route are identified, and a cost penalty applied to the identified navigable segment(s) so as to make the segment(s) less favourable when a route is generated through the navigable network. An alternative route is then generated between the first location and second location.