Loading map...

ORY destination photo
ALC destination photo

ORYALC

Our Recommendation
8.2

Left Side of the Plane

The left side offers a superior view of the volcanic Auvergne region in France and a stunning coastal approach over the Mediterranean Sea and Valencia before landing in Alicante.

Left Side Highlights
8.2
🌳

Fontainebleau Forest

Immediately after departure from Orly, look down to see one of France's largest and most famous royal hunting forests.

🌋

Auvergne Volcanoes

Aerial views of the Chaîne des Puys, a series of dormant volcanic cinder cones in the Massif Central.

🏔️

Eastern Pyrenees

A breathtaking crossing of the snow-capped border between France and Spain, often passing near Perpignan.

🏙️

Valencia & Albufera

The city of Valencia and the large freshwater lagoon of the Albufera Natural Park are visible on the descent.

🏖️

Costa Blanca Coastline

Striking views of the Mediterranean shoreline and turquoise waters as the plane aligns for the final approach.

Choose the left side for morning flights to avoid direct sunlight and enjoy the soft light hitting the Spanish coast. On descent, this side typically provides a better view of the Mediterranean horizon and the city of Valencia. Sit forward of the wing to ensure the engine doesn't block the view of the Pyrenees.

Right Side Highlights
7.5
🏰

Loire Valley

Glimpses of the winding Loire river and the northern edge of France's famous chateaux region.

⛰️

Central Pyrenees Peaks

Views of the highest parts of the mountain range, including the Maladeta Massif and Aneto peak.

🏜️

Aragon Steppes

The rugged, semi-arid landscapes of the Ebro basin, featuring dramatic clay formations and canyons.

🏔️

Sistema Ibérico

The rugged mountain chains of central Spain, offering a contrast of red earth and deep green pines.

🌴

Palmeral of Elche

Just before touchdown, look for the massive UNESCO-protected palm groves surrounding the city of Elche.

The right side is ideal for afternoon flights to see the sun reflecting off the Ebro River. It provides a more intimate view of the high Pyrenean peaks and the unique, desert-like topography of central Spain. Watch for the distinct change from lush French greenery to the scorched earth of the Spanish interior.

Top Activities in Alicante
Route Information

Distance: 1,185 km (736 miles)

Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 35 min

Departure: ORY (48.7233333, 2.3794444)

Arrival: ALC (38.28219985961914, -0.5581560134887695)

Route Type: International

Thank you for booking your travels through our travel partners. The commissions from your bookings keep this site running.