Kanoneiland Accommodation

Kanoneiland is a beautiful town which is situated in the Northern Cape of South Africa. What makes this town stand out from the rest is that it is situated on the largest inland island in the Orange River Valley and the largest inhabited island in South Africa with a length of 14km and 3km at it widest, covering an area of 2553 hectares. It is said that the islands name originated in 1878 when it was a stronghold of the Koranna tribe led by Klaas Pofadder. During the second northern frontier war, the Korannas were driven back to Kanoneiland which was bombarded by the Cape Artillery Corps with cannon fire. The story goes that Klaas Pofadder, not to be outdone, fashioned a homemade cannon out of a large tree trunk, loaded it with gunpowder and pieces of stones and scrap and fired it across the stream. When the smoke cleared, 6 of the Korannas were killed by their own gun. The cannon used by the Cape Field Artillery can still be seen in front of the old school building. In 1928, a group of 52 private settlers began to clear this beautiful island for cultivation. The irrigation scheme in the area supports the lush vineyards that are truly glorious to look at. In winter, the island can hardly be seen and looks like a series of vineyards on dry land. However, when it is rainy season, the water levels rise quite considerably and the islanders often have to put up barrages to prevent the water from flooding the island. Fortunately the residential parts have been built on the highest parts of the island and the islanders' homes are generally safe. Guided tours of the island are an experience not to be missed! It is a truly beautiful island boasting an abundance of lush foliage and fields. Groups of up to 20 people at a time can be catered for. One can enjoy the traditional meals of the islanders as well as the delicious locally produced wines. The people here are friendly and hospitable and the accommodation is superb! The tranquillity and beauty of this area attracts many people here yearly. Kanoneiland is one not to be missed!