älvdal

Älvdalen is a municipality in central Sweden, located in Dalarna County within the historical province of Dalarna. The municipal seat is the town of Älvdalen. The name derives from the Swedish words älv ('river') and dal ('valley'), reflecting its setting in a river valley.

The municipality covers a rural area surrounding the river valley, with forests, small farms, and several localities. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills and waterways, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and cross-country skiing.

Älvdalen Municipality is governed by a democratically elected municipal council and falls under the jurisdiction of Dalarna County for regional matters. The council is responsible for local services including schools, care for the elderly, infrastructure, and zoning.

Traditionally the economy relied on forestry and agriculture. In recent decades services, light industry, and tourism have become more important, with visitors drawn to the area’s natural scenery and outdoor recreation.

The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The municipality was established in the 20th century through administrative reforms that consolidated several smaller municipalities into one local government unit.