The region has been included in travel guide publisher Lonely Planet’s top 10 regions of the world, and Margaret River gets special mention.

Best in Travel is one of Lonely Planet’s biggest sellers and the 2010 edition features a chapter on the South West.

It is the only Australian region included on the list and only the second time an Australian destination has featured.

The Augusta-Margaret River Tourism Association’s Rachel House said the accolade would raise the district’s profile both nationally and internationally.

“This is absolutely fantastic not only for Margaret River but for the whole South West region,” Ms House said.

“It is a testament not only to the amazing natural environment we live in but also our unique tourism experiences and relaxed vibe which appeals to independent travellers with a spirit of adventure.”

Lonely Planet describes Margaret River as the place to go for relaxation while Bunbury was named as the main town for business.

Leeuwin Estate’s March concert and the Margaret River Pro Surfing event in April both get a plug in the Festivals and Events section of the chapter.

It lists Augusta’s Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, the Bibbulmun Track and getting up close to dolphins in Bunbury as life-changing experiences.

The book advises east coast residents to make the effort to get to the South West, regardless of distance, before the rest of the world arrives.

Rounding out the list were Bali, Alsace in eastern France; India’s Goa; Oaxaca in Mexico; Southern Africa; Fernando de Noronha – an archipelago off Brazil’s coast; Cambodia’s Koh Kong Conservation Corridor; Lake Baikal in Siberia; and the Lake District in England.

The chapter also flags as a hot conversation topic the fact that many locals have been priced out of the region’s housing market.

Margaret River has been given unquestionable bragging rights as the book notes: “Well-heeled Perth weekenders make the three-hour trek from the big city to the gourmet paradise of Margaret River.

“At the end of the day, log fires and luscious local produce are, quite simply, the only way to go.’’