The Hills
Geography
Despite the extensive deforestation, The Hills are a picturesque landscape of rolling green hills, punctuated by occasional rocky outcrops and deep valleys. The absence of the once-great forest has allowed the natural beauty of the land to become more prominent, with expansive grasslands stretching as far as the eye can see.
The Coast
Sandy Beaches
The coastal area is defined by long stretches of soft, pale sand. The beaches are wide, flat, and relatively smooth, often backed by low dunes that provide some shelter from the wind. In some places, these beaches stretch for miles, offering expansive views of the horizon. The sand here is fine, and the beach is dotted with tide pools and small shells, creating a serene atmosphere, but also a landscape vulnerable to shifting tides and coastal erosion.
Tidal Flats and Mudflats
Just beyond the beaches, large swaths of tidal flats extend into the sea. These areas are exposed at low tide and covered by water at high tide, revealing an intricate network of channels and mudflats. The mud is soft and gooey, and it's easy to get stuck in places. These tidal flats are rich with life, home to crabs, mollusks, and various seabirds, but they can also be dangerous for those unfamiliar with the tides.
Salt Marshes and Wetlands
The Geftan Coast is crisscrossed by salt marshes and wetlands, where brackish water mixes with seawater in sprawling, flat areas. These marshes are rich ecosystems, full of reeds, grasses, and wildlife. The waters here are often still and slow-moving, with wide stretches of shallow pools. In some places, the marshlands rise into small, meandering rivers that empty into the sea. These marshes are a haven for migratory birds, and local fishermen use the gentle estuaries for their catch.
Low, Rolling Dunes
Behind the beaches, a series of low dunes form a natural barrier between the coastal region and the inland areas. These dunes are shaped by the wind and are covered in sparse, salt-resistant grasses. Some dunes are tall enough to offer panoramic views of the coast and sea, while others are low and gentle. The shifting sands and occasional coastal storms can reshape these dunes over time, creating unpredictable changes in the landscape.
Coastal Cliffs
While the majority of the coastline is flat, there are some scattered, jagged cliffs that rise steeply from the sea in certain areas. These cliffs are worn down by the constant battering of the waves, yet they still offer dramatic, breathtaking views over the waters below. The cliffs are often topped with sparse vegetation and occasional caves that house sea creatures or serve as temporary shelters for sailors.
Estuaries and River Mouths
Several rivers and smaller streams flow from the inland regions and meet the sea along the Geftan Coast, creating wide estuaries. These areas are incredibly fertile and serve as important hubs for trade and transport. The waters are often calm and brackish, making them ideal for fishing boats and small craft. These estuarine areas are also prone to flooding, particularly after heavy rains or during high spring tides, and the mouths of the rivers sometimes shift with the seasons.
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