Wikipedia
The Dalelands is a region in the fictional setting of the Forgotten Realms, for the Dungeons & Dragons fantasy role-playing game. In the setting, the Dalelands is set on the continent of Faerûn, somewhat influenced by rural England, and most famous for hosting the famous wizard and sage, Elminster. In the Advanced Dungeons & Dragons 2nd edition Forgotten Realms Campaign Setting boxed set, the region is recommended as the starting location for campaigns with players new to the game.
Some say Dalelanders originally came from the Great Dale.
The Dales are neighbored by the kingdom of Cormyr to the southwest, the nation of Sembia to the southeast, the forest of Cormanthor to the northeast and the Anauroch desert lies over the Desertsmouth Mountains to the west.
Each Dale (of which there are currently eleven) is an independent territory with its own unique government, military, industry and culture.