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OPO → TUF
Which side of the plane to sit from Francisco de Sá Carneiro Airport (Porto) to Tours-Val-de-Loire Airport (Tours)?
Right Side of the Plane
While the left side offers coastal vistas, the right side provides a superior sequence of the Picos de Europa mountains, the world-famous Bordeaux vineyards, and a scenic entry into the 'Garden of France' featuring the first glimpses of Loire Valley estates.
Cantabrian Mountains
The jagged limestone peaks of the Picos de Europa visible shortly after crossing the Spanish border.
Bordeaux Vineyards
The meticulously patterned landscapes of the Medoc and Saint-Émilion wine regions.
Marais Poitevin
The 'Green Venice' of France, a large area of marshland crisscrossed by scenic canals.
Loire Valley Châteaux
As the plane descends into Tours, look for the grand estates and the winding Cher and Loire rivers.
Sit on the right for the most diverse landscape changes, from Iberian mountains to French agriculture. During the descent into TUF, the right side often gets a better view of the city of Tours and the historic Saint-Gatien Cathedral depending on the landing pattern (usually Runway 20). Best in the afternoon for well-lit landscapes.
Atlantic Coastline
Dramatic views of the rugged Galician coast and the 'Rias' as the plane departs the Iberian Peninsula.
Bay of Biscay
A vast expanse of deep blue water often dotted with cargo ships navigating towards northern European ports.
Île d'Oléron & Ré
Clear views of these iconic French islands and the white-stone bridge connecting La Rochelle to the mainland.
Vendée Beaches
The long, sandy stretches of the western French coastline near Les Sables-d'Olonne.
Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sun glare. It is the best side for sunset views if flying in the evening, as the sun dips into the Atlantic. Keep an eye out for the distinct rectangular salt pans near the French coast as you cross from the bay to land.
Distance: 1,015 km (631 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 21 min
Departure: OPO (41.2481002808, -8.68138980865)
Arrival: TUF (47.4322013855, 0.727605998516)
Route Type: International
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