The name Rostellan – Ros toileán (island promontory) is probably derived from its location, hidden deep in the East Cork coastline overlooking Cork Harbour. The wood has large coastal frontage with view that include Cobh and Whitegate refinery. The southern section of the wood lies adjacent to Rostellan Lake that is famed for its bird life and attracts large numbers of bird watchers all year round. The main trails in the wood are well maintained, but the minor tracks can get muddy after rain. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
There are a number of historical features also including; an 18th century folly tower (partly in ruin) at the western point of wood close to the seashore, and an underground ice-house. These ice houses were the cold rooms of by-gone days which were used for keeping meat and fish in storage over time. They were located close to lakes and ponds where ice could be collected and used in the cooling process for food preservation.