I think I would take your option 1 and spend a night around Sylva/Waynesville. But I always try to do that because that is one of our favorite areas to visit. You may need to get on to your destination so that would make a difference.
EDIT TO ADD. You could go up I-85 to Banks Crossing and take 441 all the way to Dillsboro. I have made this route many times. We always try to arrive for lunch at the Jarrod House in Dillsboro.
Of course I have one very important reason to go this way. My great grandfather was born in Banks County, GA (Homer) and enlisted in Confederate service with the Middle River Volunteers in which he served as captain throughout the war.
