Cabane du Marcadau
Cabane du Marcadau is a staffed backcountry refuge in the Cauterets area of the French Pyrenees, used for overnight stays in the Valley de Marcadau. It sits at about 1,621 m and is known by the alternate name Cabane du Cayan. The refuge has room for 4 people, and it includes a fireplace.
For stays you must make a booking, and you’re expected to arrive before 6 pm. Bring a light sleeping bag (or a liner). Cash is required at the refuge for payment, and you won’t have a kitchen or crockery available for self-catering (“hors-sac”/free management); meals and breakfast require an associated overnight stay. The refuge has no mobile network and no Wi‑Fi.
Hot showers are paid; cold showers are free and unlimited. If you’re bivouacking around the refuge, it’s allowed from 7 pm to 9 am, and bivouac meals must be arranged in advance (so you can get a hot meal).