Queenstown

Queenstown is situated in the Frontier Country of the Eastern Cape

Queenstown is situated in the Frontier Country of the Eastern Cape. Queenstown is the commercial, administrative and educational centre of a prosperous farming district. The layout of Queenstown reflects its original objective as a defensive stronghold for the frontier area and has a most unusual design. There is a central hexagonal area where cannon or rifle fire could be directed down 6 thoroughfares radiating from the centre. The canon sites have now been replaced with gardens and a central fountain is the dominant feature.

Queenstown lies on the Komani River and has a refreshing climate and plentiful water supply from the surrounding rugged mountains. The water is collected in Bongolo Dam, set in the hills, used extensively for recreation and watersports. Each year, around the beginning of June, Queenstown holds an art exhibition with the emphasis on paintings and sculpture. Perhaps inspired by some of the most interesting Bushman paintings in nearby caves, which are accessible to the visitor. Close to Queenstown is a nature reserve with numerous antelopes and spectacular flowering plants together with panoramic views from the mountain summit.

Queenstown was proclaimed by Sir Harry Smith in 1847 and officially founded by Sir George Cathcart in 1853. It was named after Queen Victoria. Arts and Culture: Museum lovers will be intrigued by the Queenstown and Frontier Museums which have a Victorian stone drinking fountain for horses and an example of a 1921 steam locomotive. Those interested in fine art will enjoy the Shell Art Gallery, while the Collector's Museum is a fascinating display of unique collections ranging from car badges to cacti

Accommodation in and around Queenstown