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MAD destination photo
NTE destination photo

MADNTE

Our Recommendation
7.8

Left Side of the Plane

The left side is superior for this route as it offers a front-row seat to the stunning Atlantic islands and the rugged Vendée coastline as the aircraft descends into Nantes.

Left Side Highlights
7.8
⛰️

Sierra de Guadarrama

Snow-capped peaks and rugged terrain located just north of Madrid shortly after takeoff.

🌾

Castilian Meseta

The vast, golden high plateau of central Spain with its unique geometric agricultural patterns.

🌊

Bay of Biscay

A deep blue expanse of the Atlantic Ocean as the flight crosses from Spain into French airspace.

🏝️

Île d'Yeu

A jewel-like island off the French coast known for its rocky cliffs and white-sand beaches.

🌉

Noirmoutier Island

View the famous Passage du Gois, a submersible causeway that connects the island to the mainland.

💧

Loire Estuary

The wide, shimmering mouth of the Loire River as the plane turns for its final approach to NTE.

Sit on the left side to avoid direct sunlight on morning flights. During the descent, keep your eyes peeled for the distinctive salt marshes of the Vendée region. If flying in the late afternoon, be prepared for some glare as the sun sets over the Atlantic, but the coastal colors will be more vivid.

Right Side Highlights
7.2
🏙️

Madrid Metropolitan Area

A panoramic view of Madrid's northern suburbs and business districts during the initial climb.

🏔️

Cantabrian Mountains

Distant views of the Picos de Europa to the west as you head toward the Bay of Biscay.

⚓

La Rochelle Coastline

The historic port city and the nearby Île de Ré bridge are often visible to the east during the cruise phase.

🌿

Marais Poitevin

Known as 'Green Venice,' these lush wetlands appear as a vibrant green patchwork inland.

🏗️

Saint-Nazaire Shipyards

View the massive industrial docks and the impressive Saint-Nazaire bridge crossing the Loire.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights as the sun will be on the opposite side, providing clear, well-lit views of the French countryside. Look out for the massive Airbus manufacturing facilities near the airport just before touchdown.

Top Activities in Nantes
Route Information

Distance: 759 km (472 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 16 min

Departure: MAD (40.471926, -3.56264)

Arrival: NTE (47.15319824220001, -1.61073005199)

Route Type: International

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