Physical Features of Hungary

Climate of Hungary

Hungary is entirely landlocked. Its area of 35,919 square miles is unevenly divided into the grassy Great Lowland (Nagy Alföld) and the Little Lowland (Kis Alföld). Extinct volcanoes, basalt columns, and many hot mineral springs are found in the Bakony Mountains that partly divide the two lowlands. The north central part of the country reaches the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. Here the Mátra Bükk, and the Börzsöny Mountains reach over 3,000 feet above sea level.

The Danube is Hungary’s main river. It crosses the Little Lowland, breaks through the line of hills, and flows south over the Great Lowland. Here it collects the waters of its main Hungarian tributary, the Tisza River. The Danube has carved a scenic passageway through the Börzsöny Mountains between the two lowlands. The narrow passage is lined with medieval castles and fortresses and is a favorite tourist and holiday area. The Hungarian section of the Danube is about 260 miles long, entirely navigable, and provides an easy river connection with neighboring nations.

With an area of 231 square miles, Lake Balaton is Hungary’s largest body of water. It is the largest natural lake in central Europe. The lake is the country’s most popular summer playground, and many people come there to swim, sail, and fish. Lake Velence, which is near Budapest, is much smaller, but is also a popular resort center. Hungary shares Lake Neusiedler with neighboring Austria.

Climate

Hungary has a humid continental climate. But it is far sunnier than other lands lying to the west in the same latitudes. The long, warm, and sunny autumn makes it possible o grow grapes and fruit that are especially sweet. The southwestern part of Hungary receives the most precipitation, about 35 inches each year. The area around the heart of the Tisza River distinct is the driest, receiving about 19 inches annually.