France – Normandy and Switzerland – Geneva: Haas driver Esteban Ocon shares cherished destinations, hidden gems, and holiday traditions across Europe
Formula One drivers spend much of the year travelling between some of the world’s most glamorous destinations, yet when it comes to taking a well-earned break, many prefer places that offer peace, familiarity and natural beauty. Haas F1 Team driver Esteban Ocon is no exception.
Speaking to Euronews Travel ahead of Formula One’s annual summer break, the French racing star shared the destinations that hold a special place in his heart, from the region where he grew up to the lakeside city he now calls home. His recommendations also highlight several lesser-known European locations that he believes deserve far more attention from travellers.
As the Formula One calendar pauses at the end of July for its traditional summer shutdown, drivers finally get an opportunity to escape the relentless schedule of races, media appearances and international travel. While fans often see glamorous holiday photos from yachts, beaches and luxury resorts, Ocon says the places he values most are those connected to family, friends and simple moments.
The 28-year-old grew up in Normandy in northern France, a region he continues to visit whenever his racing commitments allow. Despite living abroad today, he describes returning home as an emotional experience that reconnects him with his roots.
According to Ocon, Normandy represents where his journey to Formula One began. Family visits remain the primary reason for returning, while he also makes time to meet many of the childhood friends who still live in the region.
For visitors planning a trip, Ocon recommends exploring Évreux, the town closely associated with his upbringing. He also praises Normandy’s coastline, describing the famous Étretat cliffs as among the most breathtaking natural attractions in France.
The towering white chalk cliffs overlooking the English Channel have become one of the country’s most photographed coastal landscapes, attracting visitors from around the world throughout the year.
Beyond its scenery, Ocon highlights Normandy’s culinary heritage. The region is renowned for producing high-quality dairy products, seafood, cider and cheeses, making it one of France’s leading gastronomic destinations.
He also encourages travellers to spend time visiting the historic D-Day beaches rather than simply passing through. The World War II landing sites remain among Europe’s most significant historical landmarks, attracting millions of visitors annually who come to reflect on the events that shaped modern history.
While Normandy remains close to his heart, Ocon admits he frequently returns to another iconic French destination—the country’s Mediterranean coastline.
His girlfriend comes from southern France, giving him another reason to spend time around Nice, Cannes and neighbouring coastal towns. He describes the combination of sea, mountains and warm weather as difficult to match anywhere else in Europe.
The region also becomes particularly meaningful during Formula One’s Monaco Grand Prix weekend, when the nearby French Riviera comes alive with racing fans, celebrities and international visitors.
Although Monaco hosts the famous race, many drivers and teams stay in nearby French towns, making the surrounding coastline one of the busiest destinations on the Formula One calendar.
Away from France, Ocon has established a new home in Geneva, Switzerland, where he now spends much of his time between races.
The Swiss city is sometimes viewed primarily as a global business centre, but Ocon believes that perception overlooks its remarkable natural beauty. He points to Lake Geneva as the city’s greatest attraction, especially on clear days when the surrounding Alps are reflected across its calm waters.
Whether walking alongside the lakeshore, jogging, driving through the surrounding countryside or spending time on the water with his partner Flavy, Ocon says the area consistently provides opportunities to relax despite the pressures of elite motorsport.
Among his strongest travel recommendations is Annecy, located just across the French border from Geneva.
The picturesque Alpine town has become an important destination in Ocon’s personal routine, as he regularly trains there during the Formula One off-season and between races.
Known for its medieval old town, winding canals and crystal-clear turquoise lake surrounded by mountains, Annecy has earned the nickname “The Venice of the Alps.”
Ocon believes the destination remains overlooked compared with more internationally famous Alpine resorts such as Chamonix or popular Mediterranean cities like Nice. Despite its growing popularity, he says Annecy still offers a quieter and more authentic experience for travellers seeking both natural beauty and historic charm.
When it comes to longer holidays during Formula One’s annual summer shutdown, Ocon prefers escaping onto the water with close friends and family rather than pursuing busy sightseeing itineraries.
His ideal break usually involves spending a peaceful week aboard a boat somewhere in Greece, Italy or southern France. After months of constant travel, competition and media obligations, he says these quiet moments provide the perfect opportunity to recharge before the demanding second half of the racing season begins.
Winter holidays, however, follow a very different routine.
Rather than travelling extensively, Ocon prefers remaining at home in Switzerland throughout the festive period while focusing on physical preparation for the upcoming Formula One campaign.
Training remains his priority during the off-season, although he occasionally plans a short getaway around New Year’s celebrations before returning to intensive fitness work.
As one of Formula One’s most widely travelled athletes, Ocon has also developed practical habits that simplify international travel.
He says he ensures his mobile connectivity is arranged before boarding flights so that he can remain connected immediately upon arrival, whether travelling for races or personal holidays.
For frequent international travellers, reliable connectivity has become nearly as essential as passports and luggage, allowing athletes, business travellers and tourists alike to navigate unfamiliar destinations without interruption.
Ocon’s travel recommendations ultimately paint a picture very different from the glamorous stereotypes often associated with Formula One drivers.
Rather than focusing exclusively on luxury destinations, his favourite places revolve around meaningful personal connections, spectacular natural scenery and opportunities to slow down after months of competition.
From Normandy’s dramatic coastline and historic beaches to Geneva’s tranquil lakeside views and Annecy’s charming medieval streets, his suggestions offer travellers a blend of culture, history and outdoor adventure across some of Europe’s most beautiful regions.
As Formula One enters its annual summer pause, Ocon’s reflections serve as a reminder that even one of the world’s busiest athletes values the same qualities many holidaymakers seek—family, friendship, breathtaking landscapes and the chance to simply unwind before life accelerates once again.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members