län (county) of southern Sweden, coextensive with the traditional landskap (province) of Halland. It is a low, undulating region of heaths and ridges that rise above gently sloping sandy beaches. The coastline is smooth with few anchorages. Four rivers—Viskan, Ätran, Nissan, and Lagan, famous for their salmon and long harnessed for hydroelectricity—cross the län. Originally part of Denmark, the region was ceded to Sweden in 1645 after having been conquered by Charles X.

Rye, oats, and sugar beets are grown in the län, and there are brick, tile, and engineering works. Halmstad (q.v.), the capital, and several other cities in the län are of medieval origin. Halland's beaches and recreational areas make tourism a vital part of its economy. Area 2,208 square miles (5,719 square km). Pop. (2005 est.) 283,788.