Wales is officially the fourth most beautiful place in the world

North Wales has been named the fourth best place in the world, according to Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2017 list.

It is the only area within the UK to be placed within the guide book’s top 10 places to visit.

Beaut scenes

North Wales ranked higher than South Australia, Chile, Malaysia and even the USA.

Choquequirao in Peru came in first place, with Taranaki in New Zealand placing second and The Azores in Portugal coming third.

Lonely Planet acknowledged how North Wales is home to ‘the mightiest peaks’ and played a ‘key role’ in the Industrial Revolution.

The guide specifically pointed out Surf Snowdonia, crediting it as a fine example of the way in which North Wales has reinvented itself over the years.

It also mentioned how North Wales is the ‘heartland of the Welsh language’ and has ‘strong associations with the Celtic druids’.

Tom Hall, Editorial Director of Lonely Planet, said: “We included North Wales in this year’s list of top ten regions because it deserves to be recognised on the global stage.

“It’s a stunning area with a vast array of activities on offer to keep travellers entertained.”

Lois Jones, a third year studying Nursing at Cardiff University, said: “Doesn’t even surprise me that North Wales is that high – we live in a beautiful country and I’m glad it’s got the recognition it deserves cause it’s FAF.”