The wood covers an area of 200 hectares and is steeped in history. The northern section of the wood is on elevated ground overlooking the Atlantic Ocean with views from the forest of the ocean site where the Lusitania sank on 7 May 1915. Also visible from the woods is the ancient fort of Ballycatten.

This fort with its triple ramparts saw many a battle and it was at this ancient spot that the Vikings were first defeated in a pitch battle by the Munster men in AD 910. To the south one can see the Old Head of Kinsale and the fine sandy beaches close by at Garrettstown where many surfers enjoy the waves. To the west one may catch a glimpse of Courtmacsherry Bay and the wild beauty of the Seven Heads. On the southern end of the wood there is a spring well known as the ‘The Spa Bathing Bath’ or ‘Chalybeate Waters’.