VisitScotland's dedicated cycling site, Cycling in Scotland should be the first stop for anyone interested in exploring the country on two wheels. Packed with lots of useful information and helpful links, you'll also discover routes and trails to suit all abilities, from dedicated mountain biking centres and forest trails for those seeking an adrenaline buzz, to quiet countryside lanes and an extensive minor roads network for something a little more relaxing. The Cycling in Scotland brochure, full of practical advice and suggestions for itineraries around the country, is also worth getting hold of and can be ordered online.

'Cyclists Welcome'
VisitScotland also operate a 'Cyclists Welcome' scheme which gives guesthouses and B&Bs around the country a chance to advertise that they're cyclist-friendly, and able to provide such things as an overnight laundry service, a late meal or a packed lunch. Look out for the 'Cyclists Welcome' badge when you're planning your overnight stays.

Bringing your bike to Scotland
Transporting your bike by train is a good way of getting to the interesting parts of Scotland without a lot of hard pedalling. Bikes are allowed on mainline GNER and Virgin Intercity trains (subject to availability of space) for a small charge. However, you should book the space as far in advance as possible. Bikes are carried free on FirstScotRail trains, but again, subject to availability.

Bus and coach companies, including National Express and Scottish Citylink, rarely accept cycles unless they are dismantled and boxed.

Bike rental
Bike hire is available at shops in most large towns and many tourist centres, although the range of models is often limited. Many rental outlets give good discounts for multi-day rents.

Touring and off-road biking
Scotland is perfect for cycle touring - enjoy miles upon miles of the National Cycle Network or make up your own route. A number of long-distance routes have been established in Scotland over the last few years using a combination of specially built cycle paths and quieter back roads. Up-to-date information on these, along with a list of publications detailing specific routes, are available from the cyclists campaigning group, Sustrans.

Unfortunately, very few of Scotland's towns have proper cycle routes and the congestion, pollution and aggression of urban traffic can be challenging. The rural backroads are infinitely more enjoyable, particularly in the gentle landscape of the south and east of the country, where generally amiable gradients and a decent density of pubs and B&Bs make it a perfect area for cycle touring.

Mountain biking is popular in the Highland walking areas, but riders should always keep to tracks where a right to cycle exists, and pass walkers at considerate speeds. Footpaths, unless otherwise marked, are for pedestrian use only. The Forestry Commission has recently established 1150 miles of excellent off-road routes all over the country. Waymarked and graded, these are best attempted on mountain bikes with multi-gears, although many of the gentler routes may be tackled on hybrid and standard road cycles.