As the Formula One summer break approaches at the end of July, drivers are preparing for three weekends without racing. Among the most well-traveled athletes globally, their downtime destinations often reflect a mix of luxury and personal connection. Haas F1 driver Esteban Ocon, who grew up in Normandy and now lives in Geneva, shared his favorite spots across France and Switzerland in a recent interview.
Normandy: Roots and Recommendations
Ocon, who started his racing career in Normandy, still returns to the region when his schedule allows. “Normandy will always have a special place in my heart. It’s where everything started for me,” he said. He recommends visiting Évreux, his hometown, and the dramatic cliffs of Étretat, which he describes as “unmissable, dramatic, wild, genuinely breathtaking.” The region also offers excellent local cuisine and the historically significant D-Day beaches. “Don’t just pass through, take the time,” Ocon advises.
Beyond Normandy, Ocon frequently visits the South of France, particularly around Nice and Cannes, where his girlfriend is from. “The ocean, the mountains, the weather, it’s hard to beat,” he noted, especially during the Monaco Grand Prix period.
Geneva and Hidden Gems
Now based in Geneva, Ocon challenges the perception of the city as purely business-oriented. “The lake is magnificent, on a clear day with the Alps reflected on the water, it can be a magical sight,” he said. He enjoys walks, jogs, drives, and boat trips around the lake with his partner Flavy.
One of Ocon’s hidden gems is Annecy, a short drive from Geneva into France. “It’s actually where I spend a lot of time for my training in the off-season and between races,” he revealed. The medieval old town, with its canals, turquoise lake, and surrounding mountains, remains under the radar compared to Chamonix or Nice. For travelers seeking value, consider where your holiday euro goes furthest.
Summer and Winter Breaks
During the summer break, Ocon prefers being on the water with friends and family, often spending a quiet week on a boat in Greece, Italy, or the South of France. “After the intensity of the first half of the season, that simplicity is exactly what I need to relax and unwind,” he said. In winter, he stays home in Geneva, trains at his performance center, and may plan a short weekend getaway for New Year’s. For those looking to explore less crowded spots, Sweden's unvisited map points to remote nature spots.
Ocon’s travel tips offer a blend of personal nostalgia and practical advice for anyone looking to explore France and Switzerland beyond the typical tourist trails. Whether it’s the cliffs of Normandy or the canals of Annecy, his recommendations highlight the diversity of European travel.
