And how is the angel's way? The angel also has a lot of content, but I do not quite understand what is interesting there that could force the to choose this paladin path. Didn't go into details. What are your favorite scenes for an angel?
You are not forced into a paladin's path. In fact, I'd say due to the wonky alignment wheel mechanics the easiest angel path is a neutral good oracle. It's also very easy combat-wise, because angel offensive spells are "ignore spell resistance, save and deal large amounts of holy damage". Similar to lich, really, except you get proper defensive buffs (and the high level buffs are ridiculous) vs. bugged (at least when I've played) undead immunities.
As for why it's so popular, well, my impression is the main plot was written with the angel path in mind. You learn more of the background at what was happening at Pulura's Fall, you learn what really happened to Lariel, and you get to kill the big bad demon once and for all. By comparison even though you can go early as a trickster to Pulura's Fall, you won't be able to learn anything interesting there.
