Best Driving Route from Glendalough to Kilkenny?

Hi! I'm mapping out a day trip loop from Dublin and would love some quick advice on the best driving path for one specific leg of the journey.

The overall plan is: Dublin -> Sally Gap/Lough Tay-> Glendalough; Glendalough -> Kilkenny Kilkenny -> Dublin (via M9)

My question is about the best route from Glendalough to Kilkenny. I've seen two main options discussed:

1. Driving west through the Wicklow Gap, then taking the N81 south through Hollywood, Baltinglass, and Tullow. (Pic of route here - https://imagefa.st/image/OwHh)
2. Driving south/southeast from Glendalough on smaller roads through the villages of Aughrim and Tinahely.

For those who have driven both, which would you recommend for the best scenery?

Is one route significantly more enjoyable or "worth it" than the other? Are there any better options?

Also please let me know if you have any recommended stops along the way :)

Any advice would be great. Thanks :)