Uganda, was declared as top country in the world followed by Burma, Ukraine and Jordan, while a Welsh coastal path, whose completion has been thrown into doubt by the objection of Gypsies on the route, has been chosen as the world’s greatest region in a best-in-travel 2012 guide.

The All Wales Coast Path will take walkers around the country’s complete coastline and is due to open in its entirety next year.

But New Age Travellers say their privacy is being invaded.

Lonely Planet has voted Coastal Wales top in a list of world regions.

“What a wonderful thing. How better to truly appreciate the shape – and soul – of a nation?” the guide says. Pembrokeshire is seen as a “show-stealing starting point”, while the striking town of Portmeirion is described as “part Italian Riviera, part wedding cake, part surreal spy-thriller”.

Lonely Planet’s Tom Hall said: “As well as the novel ability to walk its entire coastline, the region comes out top because of its wildlife, great surf, castles and fantastic spots such as Barrafundle Bay and St David’s.