The Lazy Rancho camping site in Unterseen, near Interlaken, has transitioned to an adults-only facility as of this season. Operators Virginia and Cheyenne Blatter, who took over the site in January 2025, implemented the policy last December. Despite the change resulting in a full booking status for the current season, the decision triggered significant backlash, including reports of death threats and organized harassment against the sisters.
Public Backlash and Operational Challenges
The transition to an adults-only model prompted a hostile response from some members of the public. According to reports from the Aargauer Zeitung and the Beobachter, the operators faced severe intimidation. This included violent emails—some suggesting the owners deserved to be shot—as well as coordinated efforts to damage the business through fake bookings and one-star Google reviews. In one instance, a family with two children was required to vacate their pitch despite having recently invested in the site. Virginia Blatter described the intensity of the resistance as “brutal,” noting that some critics even demanded that the operators lose their business licenses.
Market Strategy and Facility Management
The decision to restrict the site was based on a market study conducted by the sisters last summer, during which they visited camping facilities across six countries. They concluded that there is a viable market for adults-only camping, making Lazy Rancho the first of its kind in Switzerland. The operators maintain that their target demographic includes individuals seeking quiet or recovery after active days, such as Scandinavian couples who spend their time hiking, biking, or paragliding. To manage the two distinct business models, the sisters operate two separate, adjacent camping sites. While the adults-only site lacks a swimming pool and a small shop, guests are permitted to visit the nearby family-friendly site to utilize those amenities.
Did You Know? The Lazy Rancho campsite is the first facility in Switzerland to implement an adults-only policy for campers, following a market study conducted by owners Virginia and Cheyenne Blatter across six countries.
Future Outlook for the Site
Despite the initial hostility, the owners have expressed no intention to reverse their decision. The adults-only site is currently fully booked, suggesting strong demand for the concept. The sisters continue to maintain the family-oriented site nearby, where they emphasize that children are encouraged to play freely. Cheyenne Blatter stated that she prefers children to be physically active rather than spending their time stationary with electronic devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the operators make the campsite adults-only?
Following a market study across six countries, the owners determined that there was a strong demand for quiet, adult-focused camping experiences, particularly for active travelers who require rest.
Are children still allowed at the property?
Yes, the sisters operate two adjacent sites. One is now restricted to adults, while the second site remains open to families and children, offering additional amenities like a pool and a shop.
How have the owners responded to the backlash?
Virginia and Cheyenne Blatter have maintained their decision despite receiving death threats and experiencing targeted harassment, noting that the adults-only site is currently fully booked.
How do you view the trend of holiday providers creating age-restricted zones within their facilities?