II.

Land and Resources

Although much the city of Cardiff is highly urbanized, over one third of the county’s administrative area is countryside. The landscape ranges from the low-lying Wentloog Levels to prominent hilltops and mountainous ridges. The highest point in Cardiff is Garth Mountain, Taffs Well, rising to an altitude of 307 m (1,007 ft). A range of hills to the north of Cardiff is known collectively as Caerphilly Mountain. The county is drained by three principal rivers, the Taff, Ely, and Rhymney. The Taff flows through north and central Cardiff before entering Cardiff Bay. The River Ely flows eastwards across the county, opening into Cardiff Bay at Llandough. The Rhymney flows through the eastern part of the county and empties into the Bristol Channel.

The climate is moderate, with average temperatures of 4° C (38° F) in January and 17° C (62° F) in July. Average annual rainfall is in the region of 750 to 1,000 mm (30 to 40 in).