Travel like an F1 driver: Esteban Ocon reveals his favourite holiday spots ahead of the summer break

Esteban Ocon Shares His Preferred Getaway Destinations Before the Racing Hiatus

Travel like an F1 driver - As the Formula One calendar approaches its mid-season pause at the close of July, competitors are undoubtedly anticipating the upcoming three-weekend respite from competition. While some drivers may welcome the break more enthusiastically than others, every season brings opportunities to observe how these elite athletes recharge. Social media feeds fill with images of superyacht excursions, poolside relaxation, and intensive training sessions as racers prepare for the latter portion of the campaign. Given that these athletes traverse the globe extensively, only truly exceptional locations manage to capture their attention during downtime.

We recently connected with Haas F1 Team's Esteban Ocon to discover his preferred summer and winter retreats, along with some lesser-known destinations he recommends to travelers.

Returning to Normandy: A Journey Back to Roots

Having spent his formative years in Normandy, Ocon maintains a strong connection to this region. He explained his attachment to the area:

Normandy will always have a special place in my heart. It's where everything started for me. I go back when the calendar allows, and it's really about family time more than anything.

He also values the opportunity to reconnect with childhood friends who remain in the area. The sense of returning to familiar ground holds particular significance for him.

There's something grounding about returning to where you grew up and coming back to the roots, and that is something that is very dear to me.

For visitors, Ocon specifically recommends Évreux, noting that the coastal areas offer particular beauty during summer months. The dramatic Étretat cliffs receive his highest praise as an essential destination. He also highlights the region's culinary excellence and the emotional impact of the D-Day beaches, encouraging travelers to spend adequate time exploring rather than simply passing through.

The South of France: A Second Home

Ocon frequently returns to the French Riviera, particularly the areas surrounding Nice and Cannes. His girlfriend's origins in this region contribute to his regular visits. He describes the combination of ocean, mountains, and favorable weather as difficult to surpass. His visits often coincide with the Monaco Grand Prix, which marks the beginning of summer and brings considerable activity to the area.

Geneva Beyond Business

Now residing in Geneva, Ocon challenges the perception of the city as merely a commercial hub. He describes the lake as magnificent, particularly on clear days when the Alps create reflections on the water's surface. Whether walking his dog Flavy, jogging, driving, or boating, he finds that any activity around the lake guarantees a pleasant experience.

Annecy: An Overlooked Treasure

One of Ocon's favorite hidden gems is Annecy, located just a short drive from Geneva into France. He spends considerable time there for training during the off-season and between races. The medieval old town features canals, a turquoise lake, and surrounding mountains. He notes that Annecy remains relatively unknown compared to more famous destinations like Chamonix or Nice, which he finds surprising.

Summer and Winter Preferences

During the summer break, Ocon prefers water-based activities with friends and family. He typically dedicates a quiet week to boating in Greece, Italy, or the South of France. This simplicity provides the relaxation he needs following the demanding first half of the racing season.

Winter holidays are usually spent at home, with training at his performance center and preparation for the upcoming season. He occasionally plans short weekend trips, particularly around New Year's celebrations.

A Practical Travel Tip

Regardless of destination, Ocon ensures his phone is equipped with Ubigi before landing. This connectivity solution allows him to remain connected immediately upon arrival, a feature he considers essential for his travels.