We begin our journey with two amazing National Trust-managed sites, Devil's Dyke and Cissbury Ring. These scenic routes offer not only beautiful views, but also fascinating history and rich wildlife.

Devil's Dyke is a spectacular dry valley that, according to legend, was dug by the devil to flood the Weald. This place offers some of the most magnificent views in southern England. The route through Devil's Dyke is ideal for both long walks and Sunday drives. From the parking lot on Devil's Dyke Road, you can begin your trek along the edge of the valley, enjoying the panorama stretching all the way to the horizon. The site is especially popular with families and nature lovers. Note the rich flora and fauna of the area, including rare species of butterflies and birds.

After visiting Devil's Dyke, we head toward Cissbury Ring - the largest hilltop fort in Sussex and the second largest in England. It is a place of great historical and natural significance. Cissbury Ring offers not only fascinating remains of Iron Age fortifications, but also great views of the surrounding countryside. Walking along the ramparts, you can feel like a time traveler, going back thousands of years. It's the perfect place to picnic and observe nature. In spring and summer, the hills are covered with colorful flowers, creating a fairy-tale landscape.

Comparing the two routes, Devil's Dyke offers more dramatic views and is easier to access, making it ideal for families with children. Cissbury Ring, on the other hand, has more historical and archaeological value, which may be of particular interest to history buffs. Both locations have good amenities, including parking and walking paths, although Devil's Dyke can be more crowded in high season. It's well worth planning a visit to both locations to fully appreciate West Sussex's diverse landscape.

As we continue our journey along the scenic roads of West Sussex, we will discover two more remarkable places: Harting Down and Slindon Estate. Both of these locations offer unique experiences and breathtaking views.

Harting Down is an area of outstanding natural beauty, located on the northern edge of the South Downs. This route offers some of the most magnificent views in the region, extending to the village of South Harting and beyond to West Sussex, Hampshire and even the Isle of Wight. On a clear day, even Portsmouth can be seen from here. The paths are well-marked and well-maintained, while retaining their natural character. Harting Down is an ideal place for nature lovers and landscape photographers. Note the rich flora and fauna of the area, including rare species of butterflies and birds. For families with children, there are special educational trails that provide an interesting introduction to the history and ecology of the area.

After visiting Harting Down, we head toward Slindon Estate - one of the best-preserved landed estates in the region. This place offers an unusual mix of history, nature and picturesque landscapes. Slindon Estate is famous for its beautiful beech forests, which in autumn are resplendent in a feast of colors. The route through the estate offers a variety of views - from dense forests to open spaces with panoramic views of the South Downs. The Slindon Estate also features remnants of Roman and medieval settlements, adding an extra historical dimension to the route. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are biking and horseback riding trails.

Comparing the two routes, Harting Down offers more spectacular views and is ideal for those seeking panoramic scenery. It is also a great place for a picnic with the family. Slindon Estate, on the other hand, has a more diverse character, combining natural and historical elements. It is an ideal route for those who want to combine active recreation with exploration of the region's cultural heritage. Both locations are well suited for visitors, offering parking and marked trails. Harting Down can be a bit more challenging for those with limited mobility due to its steep hills, while Slindon Estate offers more trails of varying difficulty.

Both Harting Down and Slindon Estate are managed by the National Trust, which guarantees a high standard of maintenance and protection for these valuable areas. It is well worth planning a visit to both places to fully appreciate the diversity of West Sussex's landscape and heritage. Be sure to bring your camera - the sights you'll see along these routes certainly deserve to be captured!

At the end of our scenic road trip through West Sussex, we'll visit Black Down - the highest point in the South Downs National Park. This route offers not only breathtaking views, but also an extraordinary experience of interacting with the wildlife and history of the region.

Black Down, also known as the 'Sussex Rooftops,' rises 280 meters above sea level. This place is famous for its vast heathlands, which turn into a purple carpet in late summer and early autumn, creating an amazing spectacle of color. The route through Black Down is a network of sandy paths that cut through the heather-covered hillsides, passing small ponds and leading between impressive pine trees. It's the perfect place for nature lovers, photographers and those seeking peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One of the most distinctive points along the route is the 'Temple of the Winds' - a place named after the poet Alfred Tennyson, who often strolled through the area. From here, there are magnificent views southwest to the wooded Hampshire hills, southeast along the ridge of the South Downs toward East Sussex and northeast to the Surrey Hills. On a clear day, the coast and sea can be seen from here.

The Black Down offers a variety of trails of varying degrees of difficulty, making it ideal for both experienced walkers and families with children. It is worth noting the rich flora and fauna of the area - rare species of birds, butterflies and plants can be found here. History buffs will be interested in the traces of former use of the area, including remnants of stone mining and old farms.

Compared to the previously discussed routes, Black Down stands out for its wildness and sense of isolation. It is an ideal place for those seeking true contact with nature and wanting to get away from civilization. At the same time, with its well-maintained paths and signage, it is a safe place for family outings.

It is worth remembering that due to the altitude and open space, the weather on Black Down can be changeable. It is recommended to bring appropriate footwear and clothing, as well as a supply of water and snacks. There are two small, free parking lots near the summit, but no other facilities, further emphasizing the wilderness nature of the place.

To sum up our West Sussex road trip, each of the five routes offers unique experiences and views. From the dramatic cliffs of Devil's Dyke, to historic Cissbury Ring and scenic Harting Down, to the varied landscapes of Slindon Estate and the wild moors of Black Down, each place has its own unique character. This diversity makes West Sussex an ideal destination for an unforgettable road trip to discover the beauty of the English countryside and the richness of local history. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, passionate about history or simply looking for peace and quiet and beautiful views, West Sussex's routes have something to offer for everyone.