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MPL → LYS
Which side of the plane to sit from Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport (Montpellier) to Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport (Lyon)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the French Alps on the horizon and iconic landmarks of Provence, including the white-capped Mont Ventoux and the historic city of Avignon.
Camargue Wetlands
The unique salt pans and marshes of the Rhône delta, known for its pink hues and wild horses.
Avignon
A clear view of the Palais des Papes and the famous Pont d'Avignon as the flight tracks the Rhône river.
Mont Ventoux
The legendary 'Giant of Provence' stands out with its white limestone summit that looks like snow year-round.
The French Alps
On clear days, the distant snow-capped peaks of the Alps, including Mont Blanc, dominate the eastern horizon.
Groupama Stadium
As you descend into LYS, you often get a perfect view of Lyon's modern stadium to the east of the city.
The right side is unbeatable on clear mornings when the rising sun illuminates the Alps. Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes into the flight for the best view of Mont Ventoux. During the winter, the contrast between the white peaks and the blue sky is breathtaking.
Cévennes National Park
Dramatic views of the eastern edge of the Massif Central with its rugged valleys and deep green forests.
Nîmes
The ancient Roman city is often visible shortly after takeoff, including its remarkably preserved amphitheater.
Gorges de l'Ardèche
The winding limestone canyons carved by the Ardèche River create a striking pattern from above.
Parc Naturel du Pilat
Dense woodland ridges that mark the final mountainous terrain before descending into the Lyon basin.
Sit on the left for evening flights to catch the sunset over the Massif Central. This side is also better for spotting the transition from Mediterranean scrubland to the temperate forests of central France. Use polarized sunglasses to better see the texture of the Ardèche river canyons.
Distance: 255 km (158 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 26 min
Departure: MPL (43.57619857788086, 3.96301007270813)
Arrival: LYS (45.725556, 5.081111)
Route Type: Domestic
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