Smoked Salmon Tour with Master Smoker Galway

Guided Smokehouse Tour
Visit the Connemara Smokehouse, the region’s oldest smokehouse established in 1979 by the Roberts family. Situated on the picturesque Bunowen Pier, this family-run business offers guided tours where you’ll learn about traditional smoking methods passed down through generations. Witness the meticulous process of smoking salmon, from filleting and salting to the gentle beechwood smoking in a kiln dating back to 1946.

Interactive Demonstrations
Engage with Master Smoker Graham Roberts as he shares his passion for preserving ancient smoking techniques. Through interactive demonstrations, gain hands-on experience and insights into the art of producing award-winning smoked seafood.

Tasting Sessions
Indulge in a curated tasting session featuring the smokehouse’s premium products. Sample a variety of smoked delicacies, including organic smoked salmon, smoked mackerel, and gravadlax, each offering a unique flavor profile that reflects the pristine waters of Connemara.

Scenic Coastal Setting
The smokehouse’s idyllic location on Bunowen Pier provides breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Twelve Bens mountain range. The serene coastal backdrop enhances the overall experience, making it both educational and visually captivating.

On-Site Café and Artisan Shop
Conclude your visit at the on-site café, where you can savor freshly prepared seafood dishes while overlooking the tranquil sea. The adjoining artisan shop offers a selection of locally sourced products, allowing you to take home a taste of Connemara’s culinary heritage.

This experience not only showcases the craftsmanship behind traditional fish smoking but also immerses you in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Galway’s coastal landscape.

• Connemara Smokehouse is Ireland’s first Food Économusée (working museum), a place to visit and learn all about the traditional Irish process of handcrafting smoked seafood.
• We employ local people and adopt programs to educate, train and motivate
  our team to work in an environmentally responsible manner.
• We strive to minimise our carbon footprint by using wind generated electricity
  and conserving energy and water.
• Our organic products are certified by The Organic Irish Trust.
• We source our fish locally and won the ‘Best Use of Sustainable Local Fish
  Award’ at the Good Food Ireland Awards.

• Access to the Connemara Smokehouse with owner and Master Artisan Smoker, Graham Roberts
• Hear the Roberts family history of fishing the Atlantic and life in rural Connemara
• Learn about the traditional saltng and smoking techniques
• Taste of award winning organic smoked salmon on soda bread (1 piece per person)

Upgrade the experience by adding an additional 3 tastings €15 per person

• tasting of honey roast smoked salmon
• tastng of gravadlax with a honey, mustard and dill sauce, served on traditional soda bread
• surprise tastng of one other seafood product

• Connemara Smokehouse is all on one level and does not pose any concerns for individuals with mobility issues
• The onsite shop and café are fully accessible with no impeding obstacles
• Accessible bathroom available
• Guide dogs and service dogs are welcome in the shop and café but not the smokehouse (note dogs must be fully accredited and wearing an assistance dog jacket/vest upon entry)

• All experiences are delivered by owner Graham Roberts in English.
• Graham is not a fluent French speaker but can deliver the experience in
  French on request.

Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of your tour.

Open seasonally.

Since the experience takes place in a working smokehouse and by the coastal pier, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing, as it can get cool and breezy.

While children are welcome, the tour is best suited for adults and older children who are interested in food, cooking techniques, and seafood. Young children should be supervised, as the tour takes place in a working smokehouse.

As this experience focuses on traditional fish smoking, the tastings primarily feature smoked seafood.