Air Canada opens new Maple Leaf Lounge at Vancouver International Airport (PHOTOS)

There is a new way to rest, relax, and freshen-up before a long-haul flight at Vancouver International Airport.

Following an 18-month renovation, Air Canada has opened its newly expanded Maple Leaf Lounge just beyond the security area for international departures.

The two-level, 13,500 sq. ft. lounge for business class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members is built with a capacity for 258 people.

Inside the new Maple Leaf Lounge at Vancouver International Airport. (Air Canada)

Guests can enjoy both hot and cold dining options, including a menu item by renowned Vancouver chef David Hawksworth, a chef’s station for individually prepared dishes, and a wide selection of wines.

There are also flat screen desktop computers, printers and scanners, complimentary Wi-Fi, and conveniently located power sources across the lounge.

For those who need facilities to refresh, the lounge offers spa-inspired shower rooms with rain shower heads, a Samsung TV zone, a VIP room and a quiet zone with reclining lounge seating.

Inside the new Maple Leaf Lounge at Vancouver International Airport. (Air Canada)

The lounge is designed by Vancouver-based Gustavson Wylie Architects and features artwork and furnishings by Canadian designers.

“We are excited to welcome Air Canada and Star Alliance eligible customers to our completely redesigned International Maple Leaf Lounge at YVR which has been created to complement the overall travel experience for our premium customers,” said Benjamin Smith, President of Passenger Airlines at Air Canada, in a statement.

“Showcasing contemporary Canadian design, artwork and the majestic natural beauty of British Columbia, customers will enjoy a calm and inspiring environment in which to work or relax before their international Air Canada or Star Alliance flight.”

Inside the new Maple Leaf Lounge at Vancouver International Airport. (Air Canada)

As part of its plan to turn Vancouver into a Trans-Pacific hub, Air Canada’s presence at YVR has exploded in recent years with the introduction of a number of new and expanded major routes, including flights to Brisbane, Nagoya, Delhi, London Gatwick, San Jose, Dublin, Phoenix, Denver, Frankfurt, Taipei, and Boston.

It also plans to launch routes to Melbourne, Orlando, Zurich, and Paris over the coming months.

Air Canada has two other lounges at YVR, which also boasts four Plaza Premium lounges, a British Airways Lounge, and a recently renovated and expanded Cathay Pacific Lounge.

Inside the new Maple Leaf Lounge at Vancouver International Airport. (Air Canada)

Inside the new Maple Leaf Lounge at Vancouver International Airport. (Air Canada)

Inside the new Maple Leaf Lounge at Vancouver International Airport. (Air Canada)