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NTE → BOD
Which side of the plane to sit from Nantes Atlantique Airport (Nantes) to Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (Bordeaux)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side of the aircraft provides an unparalleled view of the French Atlantic coastline, including the iconic islands of the Charente-Maritime and the majestic entrance to the Gironde Estuary.
Île de Noirmoutier
Look for the Passage du Gois, a unique submersible road connecting the island to the mainland during low tide.
Île de Ré
A stunning view of white-washed villages and the long bridge stretching across the blue Atlantic waters.
Île d'Oléron
Famous for oyster production, you can see the distinctive colorful beds and salt marshes along the coast.
Cordouan Lighthouse
The oldest lighthouse in France, a majestic stone tower standing alone in the mouth of the estuary.
Gironde Estuary
Experience the scale of Europe's largest estuary, where the Garonne and Dordogne rivers meet the sea.
The right side is the definitive choice for coastal scenery. For the best experience, book an afternoon or evening flight to witness the sunset over the Bay of Biscay. Keep your camera ready about 15 minutes after takeoff from Nantes for the best shots of the islands and the coastline.
Bocage Vendéen
Observe the traditional patchwork landscape of western France with its dense hedgerows and small fields.
Marais Poitevin
The 'Green Venice' is visible as a vast, lush wetland area with a complex network of narrow canals.
Saintes
Aerial view of this historic town featuring ancient Roman architecture and the Germanicus Arch.
Citadel of Blaye
A massive 17th-century fortification system designed by Vauban sitting on the edge of the estuary.
Bordeaux Vineyards
Expansive views of the world-famous vineyards of the Médoc and Saint-Émilion during the final approach.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare and to clearly see the intricate patterns of the Marais Poitevin. On the final descent into Bordeaux-Mérignac, look out for the historic chateaux scattered throughout the prestigious vineyard regions.
Distance: 268 km (167 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 27 min
Departure: NTE (47.15319824220001, -1.61073005199)
Arrival: BOD (44.8283004761, -0.7155560255050001)
Route Type: Domestic
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