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MELADL

Our Recommendation
8.7

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a stunning sequence of coastal views, including the rugged Shipwreck Coast, the unique geography of the Coorong, and a scenic approach over the Gulf St Vincent into Adelaide.

Left Side Highlights
8.7
🏙️

Port Phillip Bay

Aerial perspectives of Melbourne's sprawling suburbs and the vast blue expanse of the bay immediately after takeoff.

🌊

The Twelve Apostles

On clearer southern routes, the iconic limestone stacks of Port Campbell National Park are visible along the Victorian coastline.

🌋

Mount Gambier

Look for the distinct crater and deep blue waters of the Blue Lake as you cross into South Australia.

🏖️

The Coorong

A long, narrow lagoon separated from the Southern Ocean by sand dunes, stretching over 130 kilometers.

🍇

McLaren Vale

Lush vineyard landscapes of the Fleurieu Peninsula during the descent into the Adelaide basin.

🛶

Gulf St Vincent

The final approach often tracks over the calm waters of the gulf, offering views of the metropolitan coastline.

Book a window seat on the left for the best morning light; the sun will be behind the aircraft, illuminating the coastline perfectly. In winter, keep an eye out for whale migrations near Encounter Bay during the descent. If the flight path stays further inland, the left side still provides the best view of the Murray River mouth.

Right Side Highlights
6.8
⛰️

Macedon Ranges

Rolling hills and forest-covered peaks visible shortly after departing Melbourne's Tullamarine airport.

🏔️

The Grampians

Dramatic sandstone mountain ranges and rugged peaks that dominate the horizon of Western Victoria.

🚜

The Mallee Region

Geometric patterns of vast agricultural fields and salt lakes that change colors with the seasons.

🐍

Murray River

The winding brown ribbon of Australia's longest river as it snakes through the semi-arid landscape.

🌳

Adelaide Hills

Dense eucalyptus forests and steep valleys that form the backdrop to the city of Adelaide.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to avoid the harsh glare of the southern sun. It is particularly scenic during autumn when the vineyards and deciduous trees of the Adelaide Hills change color. Watch for the sharp contrast between the dry Mallee scrub and the irrigated greenery near the Murray River.

Top Activities in Adelaide
Route Information

Distance: 642 km (399 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 4 min

Departure: MEL (-37.673302, 144.843002)

Arrival: ADL (-34.945, 138.53100600000002)

Route Type: Domestic

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